Lateral preferences in Brazilian adults: an analysis with the Edinburgh Inventory.

The lateral preferences of 959 Brazilian adults (471 males and 488 females) were assessed with the abbreviated form of the Edinburgh Inventory using the interview method. The behavioral validity of the inventory was evaluated by asking 36 subjects to perform the activities included in the inventory five months after the interview. The results showed that lateral preferences in Brazilian adults are similar to those reported from other countries. Additionally, effects of sex and age on hand preference were observed. However, area of professional occupation was not related to hand preference. Factor analysis of the Edinburgh Inventory (including items related to foot, eye and ear preference) revealed two factors. Factor I ("Motor-Related Laterality") included all handedness items and the foot-preference item, and Factor II ("Sensory-Related Laterality") included the eye and ear preference items. The Edinburgh Inventory was found to be reliable and valid in this population.