%0 Journal Article
%T Asymmetry in Resting Alpha Activity: Effects of Handedness
%A Ruth E. Propper
%A Jenna Pierce
%A Mark W. Geisler
%A Stephen D. Christman
%A Nathan Bellorado
%J Open Journal of Medical Psychology
%P 86-90
%@ 2165-9389
%D 2012
%I Scientific Research Publishing
%R 10.4236/ojmp.2012.14014
%X <b>Study Aim:</b> Frontal electroencephalographic (EEG) alpha band power during rest shows increased right, and/or de-creased left, hemisphere activity under conditions of state or trait withdrawal-associated affect. Non-right-handers (NRH) are more likely to have mental illnesses and dispositions that involve such withdrawal-related affect. The aim of the study was to examine whether NRH might be characterized by increased right, relative to left, hemisphere activity during rest. <b>Methods:</b> The present research investigated that hypothesis by examining resting EEG alpha power in consistently-right-handed (CRH) and NRH individuals. <b>Results:</b> In support of the hypothesis, NRH demonstrated de-creased right hemisphere alpha power, and therefore increased right hemisphere activity, during rest, compared to CRH. <b>Conclusions:</b> The study demonstrates further support for an association between increased right hemisphere activity and negative affect via an association between such EEG activity and NRH.
%K EEG
%K Handedness
%K Asymmetry
%K Emotion
%U http://www.scirp.org/journal/PaperInformation.aspx?PaperID=23957