Question

13. Almost all newborns have a grasping reflex. According to MOST experts, why did infants develop this ability?

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to form a strong bond with caregivers
to find enough food to stay alive
to strengthen arm muscles
to protect themselves from heat

Answer 1

The grasping reflex in newborns helps strengthen their arm muscles.

Step-by-step explanation:

The grasping reflex in newborns is a natural instinct that allows infants to latch onto objects that touch their palms or feet. This reflex is believed to have developed in order to strengthen the baby's arm muscles. As they grasp onto objects, they involuntarily exercise and build strength in their arm muscles, which eventually helps them develop the ability to move and control their limbs more effectively.

This grasping reflex is not primarily meant for forming a bond with caregivers or finding food, as those needs are typically met through other behaviors such as crying or breastfeeding. It is also not related to protecting themselves from heat. Therefore, the most agreed-upon reason for the development of the grasping reflex is to promote the development of arm muscles in newborns.

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