A newborn's primary senses for interacting with the world include vision, hearing, and smell. These senses are at different stages of maturity at birth. For example, vision is considered the least developed sense, while hearing and smell are strong enough to show distinct preferences.

Classification of Newborn Senses by Development

A newborn infant, only hours old, is observed to turn their head and gaze longer at a drawing of a human face than at a drawing with scrambled facial features. Which of the following best analyzes the primary significance of this innate preference?

Based on the provided scenario, explain which of the infant's sensory abilities are being demonstrated and why this response is significant for their development.

Interpreting Newborn Behavior

While their senses are not yet fully mature, newborns possess significant sensory abilities that allow them to perceive their environment. These innate preferences, such as favoring human faces and voices, play a key role in facilitating interaction with caregivers and other people.

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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

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