Research and Literature
Today, new brain research focuses on neuroplasticity, which shows the brain has the ability to change. Studies also show how retained primitive reflexes, underdeveloped lower centers of the brain, and poor sensory processing can interfere with learning, behavior, coordination, focus, speech, and social interaction.
At Brain Highways, we apply current neuroscience research to our hands-on, educational program. As a result, our participating families benefit, right now, from some of the new ways scientists are looking at the brain.
Some parents may be interested in reading about specific research and case studies related to neuroplasticity, retained primitive reflexes, and sensory processing. If so, the following three books are a good start as each provides a wealth of straight-forward information, as well as many citations of clinical research.
Click on each title to read a summary of the book.
Norman Doidge, M.D., The Brain That Changes Itself
This easy-to-read book describes numerous examples of the brain’s remarkable powers to change its structure. Doidge links current research on neuroplasticity with case studies of people who are missing parts of their brains, people with learning disabilities, and people recovering from strokes—all of whom experienced, first-hand, the brain’s ability to change.
Sally Goddard. Reflexes, Learning, and Behavior
Noting that most educational and remedial techniques usually address only the higher centers of the brain, Goddard’s book includes information and research that show how underdeveloped lower centers of the brain, retained primitive reflexes, and poor sensory processing affect learning and behavior. In addition to studies cited throughout the text, Goddard includes a summary of research that has shown how abnormal primitive reflexes impact learning.
Anita C. Bundy, Shelly J. Lane; Elizabeth A. Murray. Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice
The authors of this large textbook have gathered contributions from many renowned scholars and occupational therapists, all which are considered an authority on sensory integration. The book provides straight-forward information on theory, assessment, intervention, and research related to sensory integrative dysfunction. While countless studies are cited throughout the book, Chapter 16 specifically focuses on advances in sensory integration research.
