Correlation Between ATNR Retention and Sensory Processing Difficulties in a Pediatric Occupational Therapy Population

This study aimed to examine the correlation between retained Asymmetric Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR) and sensory processing difficulties in children. A review of the literature available contributed to understanding the relationship between these; however, the limited research indicated a need for further examination to provide practitioners with evidence-based research for comprehensive care and improved occupational performance in children. A small correlational study was conducted using the snowball method with convenience sampling. The study yielded six participants from an occupational therapy outpatient clinic, A Clubhouse for Kids. Caregivers completed the Sensory Profile 2 in hard copy to assess their child's sensory needs, while ATNR was evaluated using Schilder's Test of ATNR. The results demonstrated that there was a strong correlation between a retained ATNR and sensory processing difficulties exists (Rs=+1). Due to the various limitations, including a small sample size from the same clinic, the generalizability of the study may be limited. Despite this, the results provide evidence that it may be beneficial for practitioners to test for ATNR when working with this population. In addition, it gives occupational therapists and other professionals who work with this population evidence that targeting reflex integration in their interventions may be beneficial to improve the child’s outcomes due to the potential impact the retained reflex has on sensory processing.