Relationship prenatal testosterone with spatial abilities in male and female athletes: Visual Search Technique

The 2D: 4D ratio is a predictable marker for prenatal testosterone, associated with a wide range of different sexual behaviors.

The purpose of the present study is to focus on 2D: 4D and its possible role as a biological marker that affects spatial abilities in male and female athletes.

The present study was descriptive-correlational. Samples were selected in form random available. The sample consisted of 40 female athletes and 40 male athletes. To evaluate spatial abilities, the mental rotation test (MRT) and targeting ability were used. Also in this test were used of eye tracking device for the purpose of reviewing eye movements during task performance targets. To test the pre-natal testosterone, the ratio of the second to fourth finger was measured by measuring the length of the fingers by tape measure. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient.

The findings showed that there was a negative and significant relationship between the second to fourth finger ratio and spatial abilities (p<0.01). Also, there was a significant relationship between 2D:4D and visual attention indices in this study (p <0.01).

The findings could explain how men and women Hyperandrogenic benefit from the effects of enhancing the function of androgens in sports that spatial abilities associated with better performance.