grasp reflex

behavior

Also known as: palmar grasp reflex

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Last updated

June 29, 2026

Quick Summary

The palmar grasp reflex is an involuntary behavior seen in human infants, typically developing around 16 weeks gestational age. Newborns can use this reflex to hold their own weight when hanging from a rod. This reflex is crucial for infant monkeys, allowing them to cling to their mothers. However, human infants begin to lose this reflex around three months of age, as it is no longer essential for survival in humans. While its strength diminishes, some researchers believe the grasp reflex may still serve functions in humans. This reflex is one of several vestigial features in humans, which are remnants of evolutionary history.1

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human behaviour
The newborn infant
He will grasp a finger or other object that is placed in his palm. Reflexes that involve sucking and turning toward stimuli are intended to maintain sustenance, while those involving eye-closing or muscle withdrawal are intended to ward off danger. Some reflexes involving the limbs or digits…
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He will grasp a finger or other object that is placed in his palm. Reflexes that involve sucking and turning toward stimuli are intended to maintain sustenance, while those involving eye-closing or muscle withdrawal are intended to ward off danger. Some reflexes involving the limbs or digits…
Read More