DSST Lifespan Developmental Psychology Practice Exam

The reflexive stage of development, which occurs from birth to about two months, is characterized primarily by simple reflex activities such as grasping and sucking. During this timeframe, infants primarily respond to stimuli through innate reflexes rather than intentional or learned behaviors. These reflexes are fundamental to survival and support various basic needs, such as feeding. For instance, the sucking reflex allows newborns to obtain nourishment from breastfeeding.

As infants progress beyond this stage, they begin to develop more complex behaviors, such as intentional actions, the discovery of new actions, and sequences of responses. However, in the reflexive stage, infants rely heavily on their built-in reflexes, showcasing the earliest form of interaction with their environment. This foundational stage is crucial as it sets the groundwork for further cognitive and motor development in subsequent stages of life.