AP Psychology Practice Test

What is a reflex?

1. A voluntary action

2. A complex learned behavior

3. An inborn response to a sensory stimulus

4. A function of the somatic nervous system

The correct answer is: An inborn response to a sensory stimulus

A reflex is indeed an inborn response to a sensory stimulus. This occurs automatically and does not require conscious thought or decision-making. For example, when you touch something hot, you pull your hand back almost instantaneously; this response is a reflex action facilitated by neural pathways that bypass the brain for quicker reaction times. Reflexes are essential for protecting the body from harm and maintaining homeostasis. They illustrate the body's ability to respond rapidly to changes in the environment, which is critical for survival. This characteristic distinguishes reflex actions from voluntary actions, which require deliberation and are influenced by previous learning experiences. In comparison, while complex learned behaviors involve higher cognitive processes and experiences, reflexes are innate and do not depend on prior learning. Lastly, reflex actions involve both the somatic and autonomic nervous systems rather than being a function of just the somatic nervous system.