Left Brain - Right Brain, That is the Question

We have all heard about type "A" and type "B" personalities, right? Type "A's" tend to be the workaholics while type "B's" are the laid back people. The notion of type "A's" and type "B's" may have it's origin in which side of the brain we use more predominantly. Have you ever thought about which brain-side you may be? Some of us likely already have a good idea. A type "A" is said to be left-brain while type "B" is likely right brained. Have you ever wanted to be more like the other type? Numbers and organization are identified with the left-brain, and you may have thought about "how the other half lives". Right brain people may be able to look at things in a different, more global way, but they may wonder about being more organized in their thoughts and processes. Let's look at some of the brains functions and behaviors:

The identification of left-brain versus right-brain functions illustrate some very interesting differences, as outlined below.

Left-Brain behaviors Sequentially processing information Systematic problem solver Thinks in rational and analytical terms Identifies with details and facts Objective in thought Problem solves through logic Looks at the parts rather than the whole

Right-Brain behaviors Can problem solve through intuition Remembers images and pictures Learns through exploration Summarizes rather than outlines Subjective and intuitive in thinking Random in thought Looks at the whole rather than individual parts

Above are some of the behaviors that can make up the two sides of the left-brain/right-brain theory. However, David Sousa has another theory of looking at the brain and its functions:

Left Brain functions
Processes

• Speech - Recognizes and remembers verbal expression, language, and words.
• Analysis - Does logical thinking with one input at a time.
• Time - Processes information in a linear, sequential, and logical manner.

Right Brain functions
Processes

• Creativity - Controls the brain functions of intuitive and holistic thinking.
• Context - Integrates many brain inputs at once.
• Spatial awareness - Can processes information diffusely and simultaneously.

Since there are multiple theories regarding the brain and how we think, it likely comes as no surprise that there are also some myths associated with the functions of the brain.

Myths

• Left and right-handedness affects your left-brain and right-brain functions.
• There is a good and bad half of the brain.
• One side of the brain is smarter than the other.
• Women tend to be more right-brain dominant and men tend to be more left-brain dominant.

Left brain versus right brain quiz
Here are some fun questions to help you ascertain whether you are right or left brained.
3 points for a 'yes' answer
1 point for a 'sometimes' answer
0 points for a 'no' answer

1. I am organized
2. I prefer math and science topics
3. I prefer to use logical reasoning over intuition
4. I have an accurate sense of time
5. I would rather read non-fiction over fiction or poetry
6. I can control my feelings and emotions
7. I am great with numbers
8. I am objective rather then subjective
9. I like to plan my activities
10. I am not very musical

Scoring 0 to 10 - Consider yourself a right-brained person
Scoring 10 to 20 - You have displayed a balance between your two brain sides
Scoring 20 to 30 - Consider yourself a left-brained person

Brain functions and you
Learning about the different sides of the brain can be interesting. Comparing ways we look at situations from planned versus spontaneous or quality versus quantity can give us insight about the left and right brain. It's a lot to think about. In reality, we use a combination of both sides of the brain. Thinking about this interaction can be helpful at possibly applying positive traits from the sides of the brain to find personal change.

References:
Sousa, D. (1995), How the brain learns: A classroom teacher's guide. The National Association of Secondary School Principles. Page 88 David Sousa

This material is provided by CIGNA Behavioral Health, Inc. for informational/educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical/clinical advice. Only a healthcare provider can make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment plan. For more information about your behavioral health benefits, you can call the member services or behavioral health telephone number listed on your healthcare identification card.