ABSTRACT
Multiple Motor Channel (MMC) theory posits that prehension consists of separate reach, grasp, and withdraw movements – each with its own function, neural pathway, and sensory control. A central assertion of MMC theory is that each movement originated under haptic control and was only later co-opted by the extended cortical visual system in primates. We show how MMC theory can be used to organize and advance our understanding of the development of skilled hand movements in both healthy infants and infants with autism spectrum disorder.
