The neonate is born with two types of reflexes. Define and present two examples of each type

For each example, characterize its developmental pattern. How are reflexes essential to the
survival of a neonate?

What will be an ideal response?

Adaptive – assists with survival – sucking, rooting, pupil dilation,pupil withdrawal; sucking changes
with stimulus object; rooting dissipates after 3 weeks when voluntary heading turning; pupil dilation
and withdrawal are life long.
Primitive – purpose is unclear; controlled by midbrain and medulla; there are many possible correct
responses. These are in Table 4.1 on page 103. The adaptive reflexes allow neonates to interact
immediately with the environment. When presented withobject to fit in mouth will suck and thus gain
nutrition.