NBCOT Occupational Therapy Certification Practice Exam

When a child avoids playground equipment that requires her feet to be off the ground, this behavior often indicates a condition known as gravitational insecurity. Gravitational insecurity refers to an abnormal response to one's own movement and a heightened fear of situations that involve changing one's position relative to gravity, especially when it involves elevation. Children experiencing this may feel anxious or fearful when they are off the ground, leading them to avoid climbing, swings, or slides, which can limit their play and overall development. In this context, recognizing gravitational insecurity allows practitioners to tailor interventions that gradually expose the child to such activities in a controlled, safe manner. This can help build the child’s confidence, control, and ability to engage in a variety of physical activities, which are critical for socialization, physical fitness, and overall development. Understanding this condition as a specific response to sensory processing can help inform strategies in therapeutic situations.