DIGITOPALMAR DERMATOGLYPHIC PATTERNS AND ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT

Abstract

Background: The present study aimed at determining the association between dermatoglyphic patterns and academic achievement. Material and Methods: The study involved the evaluation of dermatoglyphic patterns of 200 participants [100 individuals with second and/or tertiary degrees (HAA) and 100 with maximum of primary or secondary education (LAA)] selected by convenience sampling from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, and University of Energy and Natural Resources, Sunyani after an informed consent and ethical approval. Hand prints were analysed for fingerprint patterns (FPP), finger ridge count (FRC), total finger ridge count (TFRC), atd angle, number of Primary creases, Intersections of primary crease and Complete transverse crease (PIC) and PIC symmetry. Results: The study showed that individuals with symmetrical PIC patterns were likely to achieve higher in academia compared with those with asymmetrical palm prints (p > 0.000). Participants with PIC patterns of 300, 310 and 311 on the left hand were more likely to achieve lower academic status compared with other PIC patterns on the left hand (p > 0.05). There was an association between digitopalmar dermatoglyphic patterns and academic achievement. PIC profiles of 100, 200, 210 and 211 were not observed in Higher Academic Achievers compared to Lower Academic Achievers. Conclusion: The results confirm an association of digitopalmar dermatoglyphic patterns with academic achievement. Further work needs to be done on 201 PIC that is associated with learning difficulties but was found in 2 % HAA.