---
title: "Rooting Reflex — AP Psychology Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "The rooting reflex is a newborn's automatic turn-and-suck response to a cheek touch, one of the inborn reflexes tested in AP Psych Unit 6 development."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/rooting-reflex"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Psychology"
---

# Rooting Reflex — AP Psychology Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

The rooting reflex is an automatic response seen in newborn babies, who turn their face towards the stimulus and make sucking motions with the mouth when the cheek or lip is touched. This helps to ensure successful breastfeeding.

## Related Study Guides

- [6.1 The Lifespan and Physical Development in Childhood](/ap-psych-revised/unit-6/lifespan-childhood-development/study-guide/LudX1qTgz4sRwKzdFXZO)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Moro Reflex](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/moro-reflex): An infantile reflex where a baby will startle in response to a loud sound or sudden movement.
- [Babinski Reflex](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/babinski-reflex): A reflex found in infants where when the sole of the foot is stroked, they spread out their toes.
- Grasping Reflex: An infantile reflex where if you stroke a baby's palm, they'll close their hand around your finger.