Final answer:
The reflex being described is the grasping reflex, which is an innate behavior in human infants. It occurs when something touches their palms and they respond by opening their arms wide and spreading their fingers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The reflex being described in the question is known as the grasping reflex. It is an innate behavior in human infants that occurs when something touches their palms. The neonate opens their arms wide, spreads their fingers, and seems to grasp at something in response to being startled. This reflex is already present at birth and typically lasts until the infant is about five or six months old.