Gender Differences and Head Movements

Gait and Posture published research on gender differences in head stabilization during level walking in youth. Fifteen females and fifteen males, ages 8-11, underwent gait analysis walking at their own speed. Sensors were placed at the pelvis, shoulders and head. The results indicated no differences in acceleration values between the genders at the pelvis and shoulders. However, lower head acceleration values were seen in females with regards to medio lateral and anterior posterior directions. The researchers disagreed with a previous study indicating that these gender differences were due to mass distribution, greater pelvic movement or walking habits (i.e.wearing high heels).

This study arises new questions for me… what are the gender differences in head movements during infant development, toddlers and younger children?

References: Claudia Mazzà, Mounir Zoka and Aurelio Cappozzoa Head stabilization in children of both genders during level walking Gait & Posture Volume 31, Issue 4, April 2010, Pages 429-432