PSY210H5 Lecture Notes - Lecture 4: Palmar Grasp Reflex, Withdrawal Reflex, Birth Weight
Document Summary
Parental age: miscarriage and chromosomal damage risks increase with age, older fathers contribute to poor outcomes, teen moms at greatest risk (lifestyle issue, emotional maturity, resentment) Multiple births: premature births and low birth weight. Preterm infant: born prior to 38 weeks after conception: weight is appropriate for gestational age. Children born very low in birth weight have more learning problems: lower levels of achievement in reading and math than moderately low-birth weight children. Stimulation programmes include infant massage and kangaroo care can help offset negative outcomes. Parental contact important for both infants and parents. Long-term effects are dependent on ses and other environment factors: child"s responsiveness, mother"s competence, family stresses, family and community support. Reflex: an involuntary response to external stimulation (pg, 107: permanent. Absence indicates sciatic nerve damage: temporary. Baby"s big toe curves up and other toes fan and curl. When child dropped (slightly), arms spread out. Absent or consistently weak reflex indicates serious problem in central nervous system.
