The Relationship Between Motor Skills and Primitive Reflexes in Children with Special Needs

Abstract This study investigates the relationship between the persistence of primitive reflexes and motor skill development in children with and without developmental disabilities. A total of 32 children aged 4–6 years (16 with developmental disabilities and 16 typically developing) were included. Seven primitive reflexes Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex Right/Left, Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex Flexion/Extension, Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex Flexion/Extension, and the Moro Reflex-were assessed through standardized protocols. Motor skills including balance, locomotor skills ability, object control and fine motor skills coordination were evaluated using the MOT 4-6 test. Data were analyzed using independent t-tests, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis. Children with Special Needs demonstrated significantly higher levels of primitive reflex activity and lower motor skill scores compared to typically developing peers. A strong negative correlation was found between reflex persistence and overall motor skill performance (r=–0.67, p