What does Nystagmus refer to?

Nystagmus refers to a condition characterized by constant, involuntary, and repetitive movements of the eyes. These movements can occur in various patterns, such as side-to-side or up-and-down, and they can affect one or both eyes. This condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including neurological issues, vestibular disorders, and certain medications or substances.

Understanding nystagmus is important in the context of both medical and psychological assessments, as it can be indicative of underlying health conditions that may affect coordination, balance, and visual acuity. In clinical settings, observing nystagmus can help healthcare professionals gather information about an individual’s neurological function or response to certain substances.

The other options present different concepts that do not relate to eye movement. Impaired gait refers to difficulties in walking, which is not the same as the eye movements seen in nystagmus. The rejection of traditional cultural systems involves social and cultural dynamics, and resistance to psychoactive substances pertains to physiological or behavioral responses to drugs, neither of which have any connection to the definition of nystagmus.