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The Moro Reflex
What is the Moro Reflex and What does it do?
The Moro reflex is a primitive reflex pattern that typically emerges in utero and integrates between 2-4 months of age. This reflex is an involuntary reaction to what is perceived as an outside threat. Stimuli includes sudden, loud noises, the feeling of being dropped or startled, or a sudden change of movement in the visual field, to which the infant may spread or clench the fingers, extend the extremities followed by a quick flexion, or crying. Other physical responses can include activation of the sympathetic nervous system (increased heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing) and adrenaline and cortisol release. The first primitive reflex to emerge (other than balance) and is crucial for the infant’s survival. Immediately following birth, the moro reflex helps the infant take its first breath and protects the infant from dangerous external stimuli.
The Moro Reflex is the building block to all other reflexes and the overall development of the child. When the Moro reflex is retained (remains unintegrated), it puts the body into constant fight or flight state. This happens because the Moro triggers the sympathetic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system affects the adrenal glands and the production of stress hormones, thus changing the emotional and physical state of the child. When adrenal glands are continuously bombarded with these hormones, they begin to fatigue and secondary health issues, such as reduced immune systems and allergies can emerge.
Typical behaviors that we see when dealing with an unintegrated (retained) Moro Reflex:
· Motion sickness
· Poor balance
· Poor coordination
· Constant fight or flight
· Tense muscle tone
· Exaggerated startle reaction
· Anxiety
· Dislike of changes or surprises
· Excessive withdrawal/ excessive aggression
· Emotional instability
· Hyperactivity
· Mood swings
· Auditory processing disorder
· Hypersensitivity to auditory and visual stimuli
· Excess release of hormones
· Adverse reactions to drugs
· Eye movement and visual perception problems
· Difficulty ignoring irrelevant material in visual field
· Sensitivity to light
· Difficulty with black print on white background
· Tires easily under florescent lights
If any of these behaviors sound familiar, our Certified Developmental Educators are here to help!