Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
PHYSIKALISCHE MEDIZIN REHABILITATIONSMEDIZIN KURORTMEDIZIN, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
Objective This study investigates the relationship between the persistence of primitive reflexes and motor skill development in children with and without developmental disabilities. Materials and Methods 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. Results 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 < 0.01), particularly in the balance and fine motor skills domains. Conclusions The persistence of primitive reflexes appears to hinder neuromotor development, emphasizing the need for early screening and interventions to promote reflex integration that promote reflex integration and motor functioning in children with developmental delays.