Apparatus for Eliciting and Recording the Eyeblink Response in Human Infants

Abstract

An apparatus is described for eliciting and recording eyeblink responses in human infants 3 to 21 wk. of age. Stimulation consists of the visible changes when a red and white bull's-eye target is dropped towards the supine infant. Changes in target brightness and pressure on the corneal surfaces are precluded. The polygraphic records obtained enable accurate assessment of response frequency, amplitude, and latency. In addition to standardized stimulating conditions and objective recording, this device has two other advantages for work with infants. First, the infant's head and eye movements are not severely restricted, and, second, the response pickup consisting of three small electrodes is simple and very light.