If this reflex is retained it can be characterised by withdrawal, reticence at being involved in anything new, and fear of different circumstances. The withdrawal is not always quiet – the child may scream loud and long when faced with a new situation or perceived threat.
This behaviour appears to be due to the reflex's involvement with the parasympathetic nervous system. Most of us are familiar with the "fight or flight" adrenalin rush sympathetic nervous system, fear paralysis reflex involves the opposite "eat and stay" parasympathetic nervous system. The parasympathetic nervous system is intimately involved with the vagus nerve. This nerve may be mechanically trapped in the chest, abdomen or neck. Release of the vagus nerve entrapment corrects one physical factor that contributes to retained fear paralysis reflex.
Inappropriate retention of the fear paralysis reflex can contribute to such conditions as Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, elective mutism, hypersensitivity to sensory information and may result in physical and psychological conditions such as Panic Disorders. As it begins first and is normally integrated first, retained fear paralysis reflex may effect the integration of any other primitive reflex.
Retained Fear Paralysis Reflex may lead to any of the symptoms listed below:
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Low tolerance to stress
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Anxiety seemingly unrelated to reality
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Hypersensitivity to touch, sound, changes in visual field
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Dislike of change or surprise
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Poor adaptability
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Fatigue
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Breath holding
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Fear of social embarrassment
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Insecure / Lack of trust in oneself
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Overly clingy or may be unable to accept or demonstrate affection easily
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Compulsive traits / Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
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Negativism, defeatist attitude
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Won't try new activities, especially where comparison or excellence is expected
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Temper tantrums
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Immediate motor paralysis under stress - can't think and move at the same time
