What term describes the reflexive action where an infant's head turns and mouth opens when the cheek is stroked?

The term that describes the reflexive action where an infant's head turns and mouth opens when the cheek is stroked is the rooting reflex. This reflex is crucial for feeding as it helps the infant locate the breast or bottle for nourishment. When an infant's cheek is stimulated, it instinctively turns its head toward the stimulus and opens its mouth, ready to latch onto a nipple. This behavior is a fundamental aspect of early infant development and is typically observed in newborns.

The rooting reflex is a foundational reflex that supports the infant's survival in its initial stages of life, facilitating feeding and bonding with the caregiver. It is the first step in the process of the infant learning to eat, highlighting the importance of reflexes in early development.