What type of reflex is the flexor withdrawal reflex?

The flexor withdrawal reflex is classified as a polysynaptic reflex because it involves multiple synapses between the sensory neurons and the motor neurons that contribute to the reflexive response. In this reflex, when a painful stimulus is detected by sensory receptors in the skin, the information is transmitted to the spinal cord. Here, it synapses with interneurons that then connect to motor neurons, which activate the flexor muscles to withdraw the affected limb away from the source of pain.

In contrast, a monosynaptic reflex, like the knee-jerk reflex, involves only one synapse between a sensory neuron and a motor neuron, resulting in a more straightforward and faster response. Other types of reflexes mentioned, such as tendon reflex and latent reflex, do not fit the description of the flexor withdrawal reflex, which relies on multiple pathways to integrate the complex response of withdrawing from a stimulus.