Visual-motor integration problems in low birth weight infants

This paper represents a review of the research that focuses on a population of strong clinical interest on a national and international scale-infants born with low birth weight (LBW). Among the numerous developmental deficits commonly associated with this group, one of the most frequently cited prob lems is poor fine- and visual-motor integration. In addition to the direct perceptual-motor development concern, the literature provides a reasonable case that such deficits place this population at increased risk for subnorm al academic performance and difficulties with specific daily living (self-h elp) activities. By assessing the infant at an early age and designing spec ific strategies for intervention, clinical psychologists can play a major r ole in improving fine- and visual-motor behavior in this population.