New research conducted by neuroscientists from the University of Utah shows evidence that the "right-brained" versus "left-brained" theory is a myth.

Popular theory claims that people usually use either the right hemisphere of their brain or the left hemisphere more than the other. Those who are considered "right-brained" are alleged to be creative, artistic, open-minded and subjective. Meanwhile, left-brained people are thought to be logical, analytical and pay close attention to detail.

After a two-year year study, University of Utah researchers say they have debunked the theory and that there is little evidence that people use one side of their brain more than the other.

"It's absolutely true that some brain functions occur in one or the other side of the brain. Language tends to be on the left, attention more on the right. But people don't tend to have a stronger left- or right-sided brain network. It seems to be determined more connection by connection," Jeff Anderson, M.D., Ph.D, study researcher, said.

Researchers studied functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) of over 1,000 participants, ranging in age from 7 to 29. Each person was instructed to remain motionless and think about nothing for five to 10 minutes. Next, scientists tested the participants' brain states for evidence of strong activity in either the right or left side of the brain.

"...we just don't see patterns where the whole left-brain network is more connected or the whole right-brain network is more connected in some people. It may be that personality types have nothing to do with one hemisphere being more active, stronger, or more connected," Nielsen said.

This research does not disprove the theory that some people are more creative, while others are more logical. The study does, however, provide evidence that these characteristics do not result from one side of the brain being dominant.

Nielsen still recommends that people understand the traits associated with being "right-brained" or "left-brained" so they can understand how these traits relate to him or herself personally.