A common illustration of the grasping reflex is when an infant's hand, which is small enough to wrap around just one of an adult's fingers, instinctively closes and grips that finger when it is placed in their palm.

Example of the Grasping Reflex

A nurse is assessing a newborn infant. When the nurse gently presses a finger into the infant's palm, the infant's hand immediately closes in a tight grip around the finger. Which concept does this action best illustrate?

The grasping reflex is an automatic response in newborns where they instinctively grasp any object that touches or stimulates their palms.

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There are various types of newborn reflexes including:
- Rooting Reflex
- Sucking Reflex
- Grasping Reflex
- Moro Reflex

Various Types of Newborn Reflexes

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

The rooting reflex is an automatic response in newborns where they turn their head toward anything that touches their cheek. This action is typically followed by the baby beginning to suck, which helps them find a source of nourishment.

Rooting Reflex

The sucking reflex is an innate and unlearned behavior in infants, characterized by automatic sucking motions they make with their mouths. This reflex is a fundamental survival mechanism for feeding.

Sucking Reflex

Grasping Reflex

The Moro reflex is a newborn's automatic reaction to the sensation of falling. In response, the baby will quickly spread out their arms, pull them back in toward their body, and typically begin to cry.

Moro Reflex

Read the following scenario and identify the three distinct, automatic responses demonstrated by the infant. For each response, name the behavior and describe the specific action or event that triggered it.

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