Psychiatric Technician Practice Exam

What is a notable characteristic of the Babinski reflex in infants?

1. Toes curl downward

2. Toes hyperextend

3. Toes flex at the middle joint

4. Toes spread apart

The correct answer is: Toes hyperextend

The Babinski reflex, also known as the plantar reflex, is a neurological response observed in infants when the sole of the foot is stroked. A notable characteristic of this reflex is that the toes hyperextend, with the big toe pointing upwards while the other toes fan outwards. This reaction is a normal developmental response in infants, typically present up to around 2 years of age. The presence of this reflex indicates that the nervous system is developing appropriately. In older children and adults, the normal response would involve the toes curling downward, so the hyperextension seen in infants is particularly significant as it shows the immaturity of the nervous system at that stage of development. Additionally, the fanning of the toes is indicative of the protective reflex mechanisms that are in place as part of early motor development. Understanding this reflex is important in assessing neurological health in infants.