What are primitive reflexes characterized by?

Primitive reflexes are characterized by immediate and automatic movements in response to specific stimuli. These reflexes are involuntary and occur as a direct response to particular sensory inputs, such as when a newborn's hand closes around an object placed in their palm. They serve important developmental functions, aiding survival in infancy and providing a foundation for later voluntary movements and coordination.

In the context of motor development, primitive reflexes are crucial during the early stages of life, as they help infants interact with their environment and begin to explore their capabilities. The presence and integration of these reflexes indicate the normal functioning of the nervous system in newborns and young children. As the child matures, these reflexes typically diminish as more complex voluntary motor skills are developed.