Which reflex is demonstrated when a baby opens arms wide and spreads fingers?

• A. Grip reflex
• B. Rooting reflex
• C. Startle reflex
• D. Sucking reflex

Answer: (C)

The Moro reflex is the newborn’s protective startle response. When a sudden stimulus—like a loud noise or a quick movement—is felt, the baby instinctively throws the arms outward (arm abduction) and fingers spread, often followed by bringing the arms back in toward the body. This wide-arm, finger-spreading motion is the hallmark of the reflex. It’s normal in early infancy and typically disappears around 3 to 6 months as the nervous system matures.

Other common neonatal reflexes include the grip reflex (fingers curl when the palm is touched), rooting reflex (head turns toward a touch on the cheek), and sucking reflex (sucking when something touches the mouth).