Certificate In Psychology (CPSY) Practice Exam

Which reflex is essential for feeding in newborns?

1. Stepping reflex.

2. Grasp reflex.

3. Rooting reflex.

4. Moro reflex.

The correct answer is: Rooting reflex.

The rooting reflex is a crucial instinctive behavior in newborns that supports feeding. When the skin around a baby’s mouth is gently stroked, they instinctively turn their head toward the stimulus and open their mouth. This instinctual movement allows infants to locate and latch onto the breast or bottle for feeding. It is essential for survival, as it facilitates the infant's ability to receive nourishment in the early stages of life. The stepping reflex, while present in newborns and related to walking movements, is not directly involved in feeding. The grasp reflex allows babies to grasp objects placed in their hands, contributing to physical interaction and development, but again, it does not pertain specifically to the feeding process. The Moro reflex, also known as the startle reflex, serves as a protective response to sudden stimuli, helping to ensure the infant's safety rather than aiding in feeding. Thus, the rooting reflex stands out as the one fundamentally associated with feeding behaviors in newborns.