What does the startle reflex indicate in newborns?

The startle reflex, also known as the Moro reflex, is an involuntary response exhibited by newborns in reaction to sudden stimuli, such as loud noises or abrupt movements. When a newborn experiences a startling event, they may extend their arms and legs, then quickly retract them, often accompanied by crying. This reflex is a natural mechanism that indicates the infant's heightened sensitivity to their environment, serving as an early survival instinct.

While hunger or feeding needs, desire for social interaction, or ability to recognize parents are important aspects of a newborn's development, they are not represented by the startle reflex. The startle reflex specifically pertains to the new baby’s immediate physical response to external stimuli rather than their emotional or social needs.