Association between Handedness, Digit Ratio and Personality Traits among Adult Hausa Ethnic Group in Jigawa State, North Western Nigeria

This study explored the relationship between handedness, 2D:4D ratio, and personality traits among the Hausa ethnic group in Jigawa State, Nigeria. Data from 500 participants aged 18-30 were analysed using a cross-sectional design and simple random sampling, confirming Hausa ethnicity and Nigerian origin. Handedness was assessed via the Edinburgh Handedness Inventory questionnaire, while the 2D:4D ratio was measured with a Vernier caliper. Personality traits were evaluated using the Big Five Inventory questionnaire. Significant associations were found between the 2D:4D ratio and openness to experience, neuroticism, and consciousness. Right-handedness (RHD) exhibited positive associations with openness to experience, consciousness, and agreeableness, while lefthandedness (LHD) correlated with neuroticism. Simple linear regression revealed RHD as a significant predictor of openness to experience (R2 = 31%), consciousness (R2 = 49%), and agreeableness (R2 = 18%), while LHD predicted neuroticism (R2 = 22%). Additionally, the 2D:4D ratio emerged as a predictor of openness to experience (R2 = 17%), neuroticism (R2 = 8%), consciousness (R2 = 13%), and agreeableness (R2 = 17%). These findings underscore the influence of both cultural and biological factors on individual personality differences, with implications for mental health interventions in diverse populations.

Key Words: 2D:4D ratio, handedness, Hausa ethnic group, Jigawa state, personality traits