The dopaminergic system, and in particular the dopamine D 2 receptor, has been implicated in reward mechanisms in the brain. Dysfunction of the D 2 dopamine receptors leads to aberrant substance-seeking behaviors (ethanol, drugs, tobacco, and food) and other related behaviors (pathological gambling, Tourette's disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder). This is the first study supporting a strong association between the dopamine D 2 receptor Taq A 1 allele with schizoid/avoidant behavior (SAB). Additionally, an albeit weaker association between the 480-bp VNTR 10/10 allele of the dopamine transporter (DAT 1 ) gene with SAB was similarly found.

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The newborn has protective mechanisms against most overstimulation through the special sense modalities. By contrast, he is forced to react with stereotyped motion when his reflexes, e.g., the “walking” and placing reflexes, are elicited through “exercises” and at times even beyond the normal prevalence of the “walking” reflex (until 8 wk. of age). This interferes with the normal newborn's phases of motor quiescence and of reflex inhibition probably due to cortical inhibition. Questions are raised about long-range neurological implications of such an overemphasis on the lowest level of motor integration at a time when not even the pyramidal tracts have matured sufficiently to make voluntary walking possible. Clinical observations by Simpkiss and Raikes pointed to detrimental effects of too early use of “baby-walkers” even at 3 mo. of age.