What reflex is demonstrated when a newborn curls their hand around a finger that touches their palm?

The reflex demonstrated when a newborn curls their hand around a finger that touches their palm is known as the grasping reflex. This reflex is an important aspect of a newborn's development, showcasing their instinctual responses to stimuli. When an object, like a finger, is placed in the palm of their hand, the infant's fingers automatically close around it.

This reflex is significant because it not only shows how infants engage with their environment but also indicates the neurological development that occurs during infancy. The grasping reflex helps promote bonding between the infant and caregivers, as the act of holding onto a finger can create a sense of security and connection. This reflex generally diminishes as the child grows older, transitioning to more voluntary actions as they develop motor skills.

The other reflexes mentioned, such as rooting (which is related to finding food), sucking (related to feeding), and startle (a response to sudden stimuli), involve different actions and functionalities, such as searching for a nipple, feeding behavior, or responding to loud sounds, respectively. Therefore, the correct identification of grasping emphasizes the specific nature of the reflex and its implications for early development.