DERMATOGLYPHIC PATTERNS AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF COLLEGE STUDENTS: A RELATIONSHIP?

Abstract

Dermatoglyphics is the study of patterns of epidermal ridges and these patterns do not change through entire life and thus are unique features of identification. This study aimed at finding a relation between the dermatoglyphic patterns and the academic performance among the physiotherapy students of Teerthanker Mahaveer University with the sole intent of using these patterns for categorising students into above average, below average and average performance. A total of 100 physiotherapy students of 3rd and 4th year were included in the study (31 male and 69 female). The students were categorised as average, above average and below average performers on the basis of cumulative percentage of end term exams of last 2 years. The dermatoglyphic patterns were recorded using the flat-bed scanner method. Students with above average academic performance had prevalence of loop pattern (Whorls 37 %, loops 58 %, arches 4 %) while students with below average academic performance had prevalence of whorl pattern (Whorls 58 %, loops 39 %, arches 2 %) and a negative correlation of ‘atd’ angle to the academic performance was observed. Thus, these patterns may be used as adjunct tool for identifying and differentiate individuals on the basis of academic performance so that different methods and educational strategies may be made a part of the curriculum for enhancing the performance of low scoring individuals.