Gender and Age Differences in Spatial Imagery and Image Rotation

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the influence of gender and age on spatial imagery and image rotation abilities. A total of 217 participants with ages ranging from 10, 15, and 20 years, corresponding to 69 primary students, 64 Compulsory Secondary Education students (CSE) students, and 84 undergraduates, were administered two tests, one measuring spatial imagery ability and the other the ability to rotate mental images. The results showed significant differences between males and females in image rotation but not in spatial imagery. Significant differences were observed between all age groups in spatial imagery ability and between CSE students and undergraduates in the ability to rotate images. Spatial imagery and image rotation abilities increased with age. No interaction was found between both variables. The results agree with recent studies and are discussed in relation to lines of research.