Sex Differences In Object Location Memory: Fixed Versus Moving Through Space

Previous studies suggest that females possess superior object location memory than males. The present study investigated object location memory using both static and dynamic tasks. Additionally, the correlation between object location memory and other variables such as spatial self-rating items, MRT, and 2D:4D was examined. Participants were 136 (70 female and 66 male) undergraduates. Results indicated no significant sex differences in the dynamic task, and only one significant main effect for sex in the static task. As predicted, males rated their sense of direction (SofD), and one-trial directional memory (OTDM) significantly superior to females. Navigation preference also showed significant sex differences. Left and mean 2D:4D measures showed significant sex differences. Males left and mean 2D:4D correlated significantly with correctly located objects in both the dynamic and static tasks. Furthermore, we observed significant correlations between males' self-ratings in SofD, OTDM and the number of correctly located objects in the dynamic task.