psychomotorik

Psychomotorik is the study and practice of the interrelationship between mental processes and bodily movement. It rests on the idea that cognitive functions, perception, emotion and sensory processing influence how people move, while movement itself can shape learning, behavior and self-regulation. The approach emphasizes integrated development rather than isolated motor skills.

The field is interdisciplinary, drawing on psychology, pedagogy, neuroscience, physiology, and occupational and physical therapy. It is applied in education, clinical practice and rehabilitation to support motor development, coordination, praxis (movement planning), balance, fine motor skills, and the capacity to translate perception into action. Psychomotor work often addresses the needs of children with developmental challenges as well as adults undergoing rehabilitation.

In practice, psychomotor work uses movement-based activities, play, structured exercises, sensory integration tasks and praxis-oriented activities to promote learning and well-being. Assessment typically combines observation of motor performance with practical tasks and, when appropriate, standardized motor tests to monitor development and guide interventions. Interventions aim to improve motor skills, self-regulation, attention, social interaction and confidence.

In German-speaking contexts, psychomotorik is a distinct term used in education and therapy, including preschool and early school settings and certain clinical practices. Related concepts in other languages include psychomotor therapy or psychomotorische Förderung. The field remains interdisciplinary, with ongoing research at the interface of neuroscience, psychology and developmental science.