Why is it important for a newborn baby's reflexes to be assessed both at birth and at regular intervals as they age?
A) Because research has shown that adequate reflexive activity at birth and through the first six months of life predict higher intelligence and greater academic success during adolescence.
B) Because an infant's reflexive activity serves as a means to help facilitate bonding with his or her parents, particularly if the mother is nursing.
C) Because the presence (and absence) of specific reflexes indicate that the nervous system is working properly and is developing without problems.
D) Because different cultures define a "healthy baby" differently based on the presence or absence of specific reflexes through the first year of life.

Question

Why is it important for a newborn baby's reflexes to be assessed both at birth and at regular intervals as they age?
A) ​Because research has shown that adequate reflexive activity at birth and through the first six months of life predict higher intelligence and greater academic success during adolescence.
B) ​Because an infant's reflexive activity serves as a means to help facilitate bonding with his or her parents, particularly if the mother is nursing.
C) ​Because the presence (and absence) of specific reflexes indicate that the nervous system is working properly and is developing without problems.
D) ​Because different cultures define a "healthy baby" differently based on the presence or absence of specific reflexes through the first year of life.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Assessing a newborn baby's reflexes is important to check if the nervous system is developing without any problems. Reflexes can indicate neurological issues if absent or not functioning properly. Regular assessment of reflexes as the baby ages can also help detect any developmental delays or disorders early on. While bonding with parents, breastfeeding, and cultural differences may play a role in reflexes, they are not the primary reasons for assessing them. There is also no research to support that reflexive activity predicts intelligence or greater academic success in adolescence.

Why Is It Important for a Newborn Baby's Reflexes to Be