Final Answer:
The grasp typically seen in 7-8 months old infants is the palmar grasp, where they use their entire hand to grip objects by curling their fingers around them with their palm. Thus, the correct answer is option a.
Step-by-step explanation:
At around 7-8 months of age, infants typically exhibit the palmar grasp reflex. This reflex is characterized by the infant's ability to grip objects by curling their fingers around them with their palm. It's a primitive reflex that demonstrates the development of hand-eye coordination and motor skills in infants. The palmar grasp is a precursor to more advanced grasping abilities, such as the pincer grasp, which develops later around 9-12 months.
During this stage, infants use their entire hand to grasp objects rather than the refined finger movement involved in the pincer grasp. The palmar grasp reflex allows infants to hold onto objects securely, supporting their exploration and interaction with the environment. It's an important milestone in their motor development as they learn to manipulate objects and gain a sense of control over their hands (option a).
While the palmar grasp is prevalent at 7-8 months, it eventually evolves into the pincer grasp, where infants use their thumb and index finger to pick up small objects. This evolution demonstrates the progression of fine motor skills in infants as they continue to explore and engage with their surroundings. Understanding these developmental milestones aids parents and caregivers in supporting and encouraging healthy motor skill development in infants.