Relation between comparative risk, absolute risk, and worry: the role of handedness strength.

Research is mixed regarding whether comparative or absolute risk perceptions are most associated with important outcomes (e.g. worry). The current research examined the role of individual differences in organizational brain structure and connectivity-assessed via handedness strength-in moderating these effects. Strong handers and mixed handers made comparative and absolute risk estimates for contracting a sexually transmitted disease or sexually transmitted infection and also indicated their worry. Additionally, participants indicated whether they received testing for sexually transmitted diseases or sexually transmitted infections. For strong handers, absolute risk perceptions were generally more associated with worry and testing behaviors, whereas for mixed handers, comparative risk perceptions were more associated.