What is the difference between reflexive and non reflexive movement?

Answer 1

A reflexive action is dominated by autonomic responses of the nerves. The best known example is when a doctor uses a rubber hammer to strike a particular spot on the knee; the lower leg will kick out when the reflex is healthy. However, the quality of the resulting 'kick' is also evaluated. A person cannot fake a healthy OR a problem with a reflex.

A non-reflexive movement is also called an "intentional movement". These are actions which we initiate. For example, we intend to:

• stand up, so you stand
• stand up and walk, so you stand and walk away
• itch your nose
• raise your hand to answer a teacher's question
• wave hello or goodbye to someone
• walk into a bathroom (but, the act of urination or defecation is only partially intentional, with autonomic nerves involved as well)
• any other action you think to do or make a conscious act to do

Conscious or intentional acts (movements) are absent in paralysis because the nerves between the spinal cord and limbs have been injured. Thought alone cannot produce intentional movements or reflexive movements.