Associations between digit ratio (2D:4D) and locus of control. (September 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Richards, Gareth; Stewart-Williams, Steve; Reed, Phil
• Is Part Of: Personality and individual differences. Volume 83(2015)
• Page Start: 102
• Page End: 105
• Publication Date: 2015-09
• Subjects: 2D:4D -- Locus of control -- Sex hormones; Personality -- Periodicals; Individuality -- Periodicals; Individuality -- Periodicals; Personality Development -- Periodicals; Personnalité -- Périodiques; Individualité -- Périodiques; 155.205
• DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2015.03.047
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0191-8869

Abstract

Highlights: The 2D:4D ratio and directional asymmetry measure prenatal sex-hormone exposure. The current study investigated 2D:4D in relation to locus of control (LoC). Positive correlations between LoC in females and right hand 2D:4D and D(R–L). Concentration and sensitivity to sex hormones may influence development of LoC. Abstract: The relative lengths of the index and ring fingers (2D:4D), as well as the directional asymmetry between the right and left hands [D(R–L)], are putative measures of prenatal sex hormone exposure. The 2D:4D ratio has been associated with a number of personality traits including neuroticism, agreeableness, extraversion, and openness to experience. The current study therefore aimed to build on these findings by investigating 2D:4D in relation to Rotter's (1966) Locus of Control Questionnaire (LoCQ). Significant positive correlations were observed between LoCQ scores in females and right hand 2D:4D and D(R–L), though no such relationships emerged in males. The findings suggest that differences in concentration and/or sensitivity to prenatal sex hormones may play a role in the development of an individual's locus of control.