Relation of 2D : 4D ratio to aggression and anger

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the relation between the digit length ratio and aggression in 377 individuals aged between 18-24 years. A digital compass was used for anthropometric measurements using standard methods. The StateTrait Anger Scale (STAS) and Aggression Questionnaire (AQ) were used to evaluate the aggression and anger in participants. All individuals were evaluated by SCL-90-R with respect to general psychopathology. Independent samples test, Pearson Correlation Analysis and Multiple Regression Analysis were used for statistical analyses. 2DAD ratio was found to be lower for males than females. There was a positive correlation between 2DAD ratio and physical aggression in males, but not in females. The relation between 2DAD ratio and physical aggression was observed to be weaker when possible psychopathology, which can be detected with SCL-90-R test, was excluded. The results suggest that 2D:4D digit ratio may be used as a method to assess the degree of aggression. However, the digit ratio may not be an ideal biological marker reflecting the brain development.