What effect does the vestibular-oculomotor reflex have on eye movements?

The vestibular-oculomotor reflex plays a crucial role in maintaining visual stability by coordinating eye movements in response to head movements. When the head moves, this reflex ensures that the eyes move in the opposite direction to maintain a steady gaze on a target. This is essential for clear vision, as it compensates for any involuntary movements of the head, allowing us to focus on objects without blurring.

This reflex is particularly important during activities that involve sudden changes in head position, such as sports or driving, where the vestibular system detects the movement and sends signals to the ocular muscles to enact the appropriate response. As a result, any corrective eye movement occurs seamlessly, ensuring that the visual field remains stable despite the dynamic movements of the head.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe the function of the vestibular-oculomotor reflex. It specifically enhances eye stability rather than slowing down eye movements or relying solely on visual input. Instead, it integrates signals from the vestibular system and proprioceptors to facilitate proper eye movement coordination during head movements.