PERSISTENCE OF PRIMITIVE REFLEXES AND MOTOR COMPETENCE IN CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY
| Authors | |
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| Year of publication | 2025 |
| Type | Conference abstract |
| MU Faculty or unit | |
| Citation | |
| Description | Persistence of primitive reflexes in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is considered a factor influencing motor competence and postural control. This exploratory study examined the relationship between motor competence assessed by the Movement Assessment Battery for Children – Second Edition (MABC-2) and the persistence of selected primitive reflexes in children with ASD. The sample included 62 children aged 6–16 years. Participants were assessed using MABC-2 with ASD-specific modifications and evaluation of primitive reflexes according to Volemanová’s protocol, including Moro, TLR, ATNR, STNR, spinal Galant, and Landau reflexes. Results showed that greater persistence of primitive reflexes was associated with more pronounced motor difficulties, particularly among children scoring below the 5th percentile on the MABC-2. Deficits were most evident in aiming and catching and in balance. Findings suggest that motor difficulties in ASD reflect neuromotor immaturity linked to persistent primitive reflexes, supporting the relevance of neuro-stimulatory approaches in intervention. |
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