Crying in infancy is described as a high-pitched, unpleasant sound made by infants in response to certain situations. Infants have a cry reflex that is a normal response to some stimuli, such as pain or hunger. Older children and adults cry for emotional reasons, such as pain, fear, sadness, or embarrassment. Premature infants may not have a cry reflex ,so they must be monitored closely for signs of hunger and pain.