An exploration of the relationship between unintegrated primitive reflexes and symptoms of anxiety in children between 10-13 years in the Western Cape Province of South Africa

Abstract

Anxiety Disorder is one of the most common disorders experienced by children and, if not managed, can extend into adulthood. Research has established a link between unintegrated primitive reflexes (UPR) and Learning Disorders. Learning Disorders are often co-morbid with symptoms of anxiety, however, the relationship between symptoms of anxiety and UPR have not been studied. This study aims to explore the relationship between the UPR and symptoms of anxiety in children between 10 – 13 years of age. No correlation was found between the total primitive reflex score and total symptoms of anxiety score; however, a significant relationship was found between symptoms of anxiety and the Moro, Plantar and Spinal Galant reflex. These UPR play an important role in balance. Research on balance dysfunction indicates a relationship with symptoms of anxiety. Prenatal maternal stress, common childhood illness and comorbidity with ADHD were also found to be factors in symptoms of anxiety in children.