In developmental psychology, the maturation of the frontal regions of the cerebral cortex allows infants to:

• A. Demonstrate improved self-control and the ability to inhibit impulses
• B. Recognize familiar faces immediately after birth
• C. Develop basic reflexes such as sucking and grasping
• D. Perceive color differences for the first time

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the frontal regions of the cerebral cortex are associated with higher-order cognitive functions, including self-control, decision-making, and impulse inhibition.
2. Recognize that maturation refers to the biological growth processes that enable the development of these cognitive abilities over time.
3. Identify that infants' ability to recognize familiar faces immediately after birth is linked more to other brain areas like the visual cortex and limbic system, not primarily the frontal cortex.
4. Note that basic reflexes such as sucking and grasping are innate and controlled by lower brain centers, not dependent on the frontal cortex maturation.
5. Conclude that the maturation of the frontal cortex specifically supports improved self-control and the ability to inhibit impulses, which develops as infants grow.