Motor proficiency in children with psychosis

Twenty-one children, aged 8 to 11 years, whose disorders were diagnosed as childhood psychosis, were tested by using the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency. In addition, two reflex tests, one righting reaction, and a test for muscle tone were administered. The children showed large variations in all motor skill scores, which ranged from average to far below average. Total test battery scores indicated all children but one scored at or below the first percentile of the standardized sample. Delayed reflex integration and delayed mature righting reactions were observed and in some cases were associated with low motor test scores. Hypotonicity was observed in 12 of the 21 children. Results indicate that for children with psychoses, early intervention is important and carefully planned motor and reflex integration programs should be applied.