Body opening symptoms and right-left sets

J Nerv Ment Dis. 1979 Jul;167(7):422-7. doi: 10.1097/00005053-197907000-00005.

Abstract

Previous work demonstrated a relationship between the frequency with which an individual experiences stomach symptoms and the asymmetry he displays in perceiving and responding to the spatial dimension of up-down. This suggested that spatial asymmetries may mirror attitudes that have physiological and symptom consequences. The generality of this formulation was tested by examining the correlation between right-left perceptual asymmetries and various symptoms. It was demonstrated in both males and females, although more strongly in the former, that symptoms involving the body openings are significantly correlated with a left perceptual bias. A theory concerning the meaning of this relationship was offered and found to be supported in a male and also a female sample.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Body Image*
  • Female
  • Functional Laterality*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Psychoanalytic Theory
  • Psychophysiologic Disorders / psychology*
  • Sex Factors
  • Space Perception*