Right Brain Vs. Left Brain: Myths And Misconceptions
For decades, science, medicine, and psychology experts have worked toward a deeper understanding of the human brain. As research continues to uncover the mysteries of the mind, we explore current findings and updated information on how the brain works.
How does the brain work?
In this article, we’ll explore how our two hemispheres influence the way the brain functions, as well as the facts, myths, and misconceptions behind the topic of being “right-brained” or “left-brained.”
The brain's central role in human function
The human brain serves as the central command center for the entirety of the human body and the root of all human intelligence. Weighing approximately three pounds, the brain contains about 100 billion neurons and 100 trillion synapticconnections.
Brain hemispheres and the cerebrum
The upper brain, or cerebrum, contains the right and left sides of the brain, known as the right and left hemispheres. Though the two sides are similar in appearance, science has explored the vast difference in how each side of the brain processes information.
Right brain vs. left brain functions and communication
The human brain is highly adaptable and constantly reorganizes itself based on life experiences. Much like a computer, the brain processes information from the senses and body and sends messages back to the body.
The left brain and right brain are connected by a thick bundle of nerve fibers called the corpus callosum, with each hemisphere comprising six areas or “lobes” possessing different functions. As scientists further map the brain, our understanding of the specific regions responsible for fundamental functions deepens.
Current research shows us that, in general, the right side of the brain controls the left side of the body and vice versa. Additionally, it’s understood that the left hemisphere controls speech and abstract thinking in most people, while the right hemisphere is generally responsible for spatial thinking and imagery.
What is associated with being right-brained vs. left-brained?
According to conjecture stemming from Sperry’s research, some people associate different abilities or personality traits with different sides of the brain, with left-brain associations typically opposed to those of the right side.
Traits often linked to left-brain dominance
If you have ever encountered the right-brain/left-brain myth, you may have heard the following associated with being “left-brained”:
- Being logical
- Relying on facts
- Showing mathematical talent
- Demonstrating linear thought
- Having skill in sequencing
- Thinking in words
Traits often linked to right-brain dominance
On the other hand, “right-brained” people have often been cast as having the following characteristics or abilities:
- Being intuitive
- Demonstrating holistic thought
- Possessing rhythm in various capacities
- Relying on intuition
- Harnessing their imagination
- Visualizing their feelings
While both sides of the brain work differently, no conclusive evidence supports that personality traits, preferences, or learning styles can determine left-brain vs. right-brain dominance.
Being right-brained or left-brained is a myth
In 2013, a study performed by a team of neuroscientists revealed magnetic resonance imaging of 1,000 people, showing evidence that the human brain doesn’t favor one side over the other. Additionally, contrary to what the right-hemisphere hypothesis predicted, there were no differences between the two brain hemispheres in how they process positive emotions.
Recent findings show that the brain isn’t limited to utilizing only one side at a time. Whether you engage in logical or creative tasks, both sides of your brain contribute. Interhemispheric switching can happen in many scenarios and for various durations.
Are right brain vs. left brain differences associated with mental disorders?
You might wonder if right brain versus left brain differences impact mental health.
Technological advancements in brain research
The advancement of technology, such as computed axial tomography (CAT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs), and electroencephalography (EEG), has enabled researchers to study brain activity in more advanced capacities.
Research on brain activity and anxiety disorders
In one study conducted at the University of Illinois, a research team found evidence that different brain activity patterns correlate with specific types of anxiety. The practitioners categorized 42 undergraduate college students into three cohorts: high anxious apprehension (verbal rumination or worry), high anxious arousal (intense fear or panic), or neither. They then used MRI technology to map which brain areas showed heightened neural activity.
Left-brain and right-brain activity in mental disorders
As anticipated, the first cohort demonstrated significant left-brain activity, while the second cohort showed increased right-brain activity. Other trials using EEG technology have discovered that study participants diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) reveal heightened left-brain activity; on the contrary, people diagnosed with panic disorder or similar conditions sensitive to high stress exhibit significant right-brain activity.
While such studies can provide valuable insight into why people experience conditions like anxiety, worry, or panic, the public should exercise caution in extrapolating in the same way that many others have misinterpreted Sperry’s original split brain theory research.
Using one hemisphere over the other more frequently does not put someone at risk of developing a mental health condition.
Maintaining a healthy brain
For the most part, we are unaware of which parts of the brain we use at any time. If you’re concerned about symptoms you’re experiencing that interfere with your ability to lead a productive or fulfilling life, there are many options you can pursue.
Instead of strengthening one side of your brain over the other, promoting interhemispheric switching is often the recommended approach. This may involve participating in tasks that require multiple components of the brain and maintaining the use of the many neural pathways in our minds.
Engaging in activities such as completing puzzles, learning new skills, or playing instruments might help enhance cognitive abilities.
A healthy diet can provide the necessary nutrients to promote overall brain health. Likewise, regular physical exercise can benefit your body and support brain function by increasing blood flow and promoting the growth of new brain cells. Also, prioritizing quality sleep and managing stress is beneficial for maintaining a healthy brain.
Can therapy address a brain imbalance?
In many cases, therapy can be valuable for those struggling with challenges like managing stress, improving communication, or regulating emotions. Many people also seek therapy to confirm or diagnose a mental health condition. There’s no shame in reaching out to a professional for answers; there are many ways to attain help on your terms.
Benefits of online therapy for mental health support
Online therapy platforms like BetterHelp are one option for people who may find it challenging to obtain in-person support due to lack of opportunity, affordability, or time constraints. When using BetterHelp, people can get matched with a licensed counselor skilled in their particular area of need within 48 hours. They can meet via video conference, voice chat, or text anytime.
In addition to flexibility and cost-effectiveness, research has demonstrated that online therapy delivers a quality of care equal to in-person treatment.
Talking through concerns with an online therapist may alleviate symptoms and help reframe thoughts that lead to anxious feelings. If therapy alone does not seem to help what feels like a brain imbalance, your online therapist can direct you to other resources (like psychiatrists).
Takeaway
Ultimately, whether you’re tackling a project rooted in logic or working on a creative piece, both hemispheres of your brain actively contribute and offer input. No individual is exclusively left-brained or right-brained, thus creating more possibilities to leverage your strengths and continually expand your intellectual horizons.
Whether you’re interested in improving your overall brain health or discussing symptoms with a licensed professional, the team at BetterHelp is qualified to support you.
Frequently asked questions
What is a left-brain thinker?
The left and right brain dominance theory suggests that people who are more creative tend to favor the right half of their brains, while people who are more logic-driven tend to favor the left half. Recent research has debunked this idea, finding that people generally don’t favor using one side of their brain over the other. That said, there are certain traits that are often associated with the stereotype of “left-brain thinkers.” These include:
- Logical thinking
- Language skills
- Organizational skills
- Math skills
- Detail-oriented thinking
What are the weaknesses of a right-brained person?
According to the debunked left and right brain myth, so-called “right-brain thinkers” are commonly thought to have weaknesses in certain areas. Some examples include:
- Poor organizational skills
- Trouble with logical thinking
- Trouble with structure and routine
- Impulsiveness
- A tendency to be driven by emotions
What are some left brain weaknesses?
Keep in mind that recent neuroscience research has disproved the classic left and right brain hypothesis. Even a so-called “left-brained person” doesn’t favor a particular side of their brain. That said, weaknesses that are commonly associated with left-brained people include:
- Trouble with creative expression
- Trouble with ambiguity and uncertainty
- A lack of flexibility
- A tendency to overthink decisions and tasks
- Trouble connecting emotionally with others
What are the 10 characteristics of the right brain?
The right hemisphere of the brain plays a role in various mental functions. Some examples include:
- Facial recognition
- Emotion recognition
- Spatial awareness
- Certain aspects of language processing
- “Big picture” thinking
- Creativity
- Processing and interpreting images
- Visualization
- Perceiving music
- Recognizing patterns
In addition, the right brain is also responsible for physical activity on the left side of the body.
What part of the brain controls memory?
Scientific study has given us insight into how certain parts of the brain are highly involved in different tasks and processes. Structures involved in forming, processing, and storing memories include:
- The hypothalamus
- The amygdala
- The hippocampus
- The temporal lobe
What percentage of people are right-brained?
Research has found that the theory of right- and left-brained people, which often appears in popular culture and online personality tests, is a myth. While it is absolutely true that brain structure plays a role in different skills and emotions, the idea that certain people favor one side of their brain over the other side is not true. For this reason, there is no definitive percentage of people who are “right-brained” or “left-brained.”
What emotions does the right side of the brain control?
Research by scientists like Nobel Prize winner Roger Sperry has provided insight into a concept called “hemispheric lateralization,” or “brain lateralization.” Brain lateralization suggests that the left and right sides of the brain are responsible for different functions, with nerve fibers creating an information highway that allows them to work together.
Past studies have shown that emotions like pride and happiness are controlled by the left side of the brain, while the right side of the brain controls emotions like fear and disgust. However, more recent research using brain scans and brain stimulation has found that in left-handed people, these locations are reversed.
Are musicians more right or left-brained?
Music and music-related creativity may involve both the right and left side of the brain. For example, according to a 2020 study, jazz musicians who are experienced improvisers mainly use the left side of their brain to improvise, while those who are inexperienced at improvising rely more on the right side of their brain. Research has also found that creative tasks tend to involve both sides of the brain, suggesting that musicians aren’t inherently “left-brained” or “right-brained.”
What are some right brain weaknesses?
Because the two halves of the brain complement each other, the right brain may have weaknesses in areas that are mainly controlled by the opposite side. Some examples include:
- Logical thinking and reasoning
- Sequences and repetitive tasks
- Detail-oriented thinking
- Abstract math
This does not necessarily mean that if you struggle in these areas, your left brain is inherently “weaker” than your right brain. Living a healthy lifestyle may help you keep both sides of your brain healthy, regardless of your individual skills and preferences.
What is a right-brained person like?
The left and right brain myth is a (disproven) popular psychology concept suggesting that people have individual preferences for using the right or left side of their brain. According to this theory, a so-called “right-brained person” tends to:
- Have high levels of emotional intelligence
- Be driven by their intuition
- Be flexible and adaptable
- Excel at certain tasks (those involving creativity and holistic thinking)
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