Hemispheric differences in word meaning processing: Alternative interpretations of current evidence

Fassbinder, Wiltrud and Tompkins, Connie
Hemispheric differences in word meaning processing: Alternative interpretations of current evidence. In Clinical Aphasiology Conference: Clinical Aphasiology Conference (2005 : 35th : Sanibel Island, FL : May 31-June 4, 2005) / : (2005).

Abstract

Current models of hemispheric differences in word semantic processing converge on the hypothesis that the left hemisphere focuses word meanings to their core meanings, whereas the right hemisphere keeps wider representations active. This paper discusses four aspects of studies frequently cited in support of this hypothesis that require further investigation and consideration. Specifically, the paper critiques assumptions about interpretation of lateral prime presentation, priming measures, prime-target association, and aspects of targeted meanings (strength of relatedness versus meaning dominance). The paper proposes further research to clarify these assumptions, and introduces an alternative interpretation of the available data.