Which reflex is the startle response that causes the arms to spread and then move inward?

Which reflex is the startle response that causes the arms to spread and then move inward?

• A. Rooting Reflex
• B. Moro Reflex
• C. Grasping Reflex
• D. Babinski Reflex

Answer: (B)

The startle-based Moro reflex is the one described. When a baby is startled by a loud noise or sudden movement, the arms spread wide (outward) and then bend in toward the body, as if the infant is trying to grasp something. This arm pattern is the classic Moro response and it reflects a primitive, protective reflex that helps the infant respond to startling stimuli. The reflex is present at birth and typically fades by about two to four months as the nervous system matures. Other common newborn reflexes involve different actions: rooting is turning toward touch on the cheek to find a nipple, grasping is a hand-closing response to palm stimulation, and the Babinski reflex is the toes fanning when the sole is stroked. None of these describe the characteristic startle with arms spreading and then moving inward.

The startle-based Moro reflex is the one described. When a baby is startled by a loud noise or sudden movement, the arms spread wide (outward) and then bend in toward the body, as if the infant is trying to grasp something. This arm pattern is the classic Moro response and it reflects a primitive, protective reflex that helps the infant respond to startling stimuli. The reflex is present at birth and typically fades by about two to four months as the nervous system matures. Other common newborn reflexes involve different actions: rooting is turning toward touch on the cheek to find a nipple, grasping is a hand-closing response to palm stimulation, and the Babinski reflex is the toes fanning when the sole is stroked. None of these describe the characteristic startle with arms spreading and then moving inward.