Suburban Law Enforcement Academy (SLEA) BA State Certification Practice Exam

What condition causes involuntary jerking movements of the eyes?

1. Strabismus

2. Nystagmus

3. Amblyopia

4. Glaucoma

The correct answer is: Nystagmus

Nystagmus is characterized by involuntary jerking or oscillating movements of the eyes. This condition can result in the eyes moving back and forth in a rhythmic fashion, which can occur either horizontally, vertically, or in a rotational manner. Nystagmus can be congenital, developing in infancy, or acquired later in life due to various factors such as vestibular disorders, neurological conditions, or side effects of certain medications. The defining feature of nystagmus is the involuntary nature of the eye movements, distinguishing it from other vision-related conditions. Strabismus involves misalignment of the eyes rather than involuntary movements, while amblyopia refers to reduced vision in one eye not due to any eye structural abnormality. Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, typically associated with increased eye pressure, but does not cause eye movement abnormalities like nystagmus. Thus, nystagmus is the appropriate condition associated with involuntary eye jerking.