Anna is asleep in her crib. Her brother comes into her bedroom and slams her door very loudly. Anna throws her arms out, arches her back, and brings her arms back together. She starts to cry. What reflex is Anna demonstrating?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Anna is demonstrating the Moro reflex, which is a primitive reflex seen in infants. It occurs in response to a sudden movement or loud noise, causing the infant to throw their arms out and then bring them back together while arching their back. The reflex helps infants protect themselves from potential danger. The other reflexes listed (Babinski, Palmer grasp, and Rooting) are not elicited by loud noises or sudden movements.

Anna Is Asleep in Her Crib