Evidence of a relationship between asymmetries in tympanic membrane temperature and lateralised sensory preferences

Abstract

Ear and eye preference are possible contralateral measures of hemispheric activity, but little physiological evidence in favour of this has ever been presented. It is suggested that tympanic membrane temperature (reflecting temperature of the tympanic membrane, ear canal, and surrounding tissue) is likely to be an index of local hemispheric activity since it provides a measure of heat generated by local neuronal processes. It is hypothesised that ear and eye preference will be contralaterally positively correlated with asymmetries in tympanic membrane temperature. Evidence from two points in time generally supports this perspective. Although relationships were not that strong and there were some inconsistencies, results provide evidence that sensory preferences (ear and eye preference) are useful and non-invasive predictors of stable asymmetries in hemispheric activity.

Keywords:

• Ear temperature
• Tympanic membrane temperature
• Ear preference
• Aural preference
• Eye preference
• Sensory preference
• Temporal lobe

Acknowledgements

The author thanks the two reviewers for their excellent advice and comments.