Can we talk about how social skills are so hard for some kids? Social interactions can be complex, and downright painful. Social interactions are much more than just a verbal exchange between two or more people. It involves reading the context of the situation, reading body language, and responding accordingly. For some, this comes so naturally, that they tend to shine in the social spotlight. For others, there is a very real sense of fear of the “unknown” or the “unpredictable”.
If the Moro reflex is retained, it can be associated with hypersensitivity to unexpected forms of sensory stimulation. This includes speaking or participating in a
social situation. According to Sally Goddard Blythe, The Moro reflex is a rapid-firing reflex that comes into play before higher centers in the brain have time to filter or respond from a level of consciousness. These people tend to act first, without thinking about the consequences. This could mean fleeing the situation, or taking control and commanding the attention.
Some might withdraw or shy away from getting involved in a social situation. They have learned to avoid putting themselves into this type of stressful situation. They might find it difficult to make friends, lending way to feelings of loneliness. These people might also have friends or acquaintances, but rarely put themselves out there to join in activities.
Others with a retained Moro might want the spotlight on them, because if they are the center of attention, then they feel in control of the situation. Some may be master manipulators as a way to stay in control. In any case, these people tend to be hypervigilant in anticipation of what could happen. When the Moro reflex is triggered, it releases stress hormones into the body. A retained Moro reflex can hinder quality of life, self-perception, and the ability to carry on meaningful relationships outside of their small circle of trust. If your child is having difficulty with social skills, there could be a lot more to it than you realize. Contact us today to get to the root of the problem.
About the Author:
Emily Reynolds, MSOTR is the founder of ReSprout Therapy. She is a pediatric Occupational Therapist who specializes in neurodevelopment and reflex integration.
Emily loves working with parents and kids to find the source of the problem and create lasting changes that impact daily lives and the long-term future of the child.
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