Emotional Regulation and Retained Reflexes
Have you ever noticed your child reacting strongly to sudden noises, bright lights, or changes in routine? For many parents of children with developmental delays or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), these heightened reactions can be a daily challenge. One underlying cause may be retained primitive reflexes (RPRs)—early, automatic movements that persist beyond infancy and affect emotional regulation.
The Role of Reflexes in Emotional Responses
Primitive reflexes, such as the Moro reflex, are survival mechanisms. For newborns, the Moro reflex triggers a startle response when they experience unexpected stimuli, like a loud noise or a change in position. This reflex is designed to prepare the body for fight or flight, but in typical development, it fades by around six months of age.
When the Moro reflex is retained, it can keep a child’s nervous system on high alert. This may result in:
Heightened sensitivity: Reacting strongly to sensory input like loud sounds, bright lights, or touch.
Difficulty calming down: Struggling to self-soothe after a triggering event.
Emotional outbursts: Overwhelming feelings of frustration or fear that lead to meltdowns.
These challenges often make it difficult for children to adapt to new situations, focus in noisy environments, or feel comfortable in social settings.
How Retained Reflexes Disrupt Emotional Growth
Retained reflexes keep the brain’s stress-response system active, preventing the development of higher-order functions in the frontal lobe. This part of the brain plays a key role in managing emotions, making decisions, and calming stress responses. When reflexes like the Moro reflex remain active, the brain struggles to balance these processes, leading to emotional and sensory dysregulation.
For parents and caregivers, this can look like a child who seems perpetually ‘on edge’, frequently overreacting to small frustrations or appearing overwhelmed in stimulating environments.
Therapies to Foster Emotional Regulation
Fortunately, therapies targeting retained reflexes can help children regain control over their emotions. Professionals use techniques like:
Rhythmic movement exercises: Simple, repetitive actions that mimic the movements babies naturally make to integrate reflexes.
Sensory integration therapy: Activities designed to desensitise the nervous system and help the brain process sensory input more effectively.
Breathing and relaxation exercises: Teaching children to calm their bodies and regulate their nervous systems during stress.
Research shows that children undergoing these therapies often experience reduced sensory sensitivities, improved focus, and fewer emotional outbursts. Over time, their ability to handle stress and adapt to new situations grows, giving them greater confidence in their daily lives.
Creating a Supportive Environment
Parents and caregivers can play a crucial role in supporting their child’s emotional growth. Creating a calm, predictable environment can help reduce triggers while reinforcing progress made in therapy. Gentle encouragement and patience go a long way as children navigate their journey toward emotional regulation.
Remember, progress may be gradual, but every step forward builds resilience and self-confidence. By addressing retained reflexes, you can help your child gain the tools they need to manage their emotions and thrive in the world around them.
