Motor Development of Infants

            
             The purpose of this paper is to conduct a case study longitudinal investigation of an infant of 0-24 months over an eleven week period. Through describing and explaining the intraindividual difference of the infants' acquisition of the motor 'milestones' over this period, a number of observations will be made. Firstly, the degree to which the participant's pattern of motor development adheres to the Dynamic Systems Approach will be discussed. Secondly, of paramount importance to the Dynamic Systems Approach is the theory that 'the context in which people exist will affect how they move' (Haywood and Getchell, 2001:27). Therefore, through thorough description and explanation of the intraindividual differences the participant demonstrates, it will become apparent that environmental influences enhance the development of motor skill acquisition. .
             Review of the Literature.
             The literature reviewed throughout this paper will discuss the weight environmental influences play on the development of an individuals motor behavior.
             Through examining an individuals ability to attain and demonstrate continuity of a motor behavior, it has been suggested by numerous authors that we are in fact not only examining a wide variety of physical behaviors but more over, environmental factors that allow for the attainment of motor functions to appear. Application of Newell's model to an individuals ability to perform any function, serves as a good starting point. Newell's model considers the individuals environment as a heavily influential factor in considering motor function. So to, the Dynamic Systems approach considers the influence the environment plays in promoting the movement abilities of an individual. It is from these two theoretical bases for motor movement that this longitudinal study is based. .
             Although the majority of the literature reviewed will all conclude the effects of environmental influences on the development of motor skills is of paramount importance, a good starting point would be to discuss the writing of Dr Jane Clark.