Which occlusion type is more likely used to eliminate distracting peripheral stimuli while reading?

• A. Binasal occlusion
• B. Bitemporal occlusion
• C. Full occlusion
• D. No occlusion

Answer: (B)

When reading, the aim is to limit input from the peripheral parts of the visual field while keeping the central area clear for the text. Blocking the outer parts of both eyes achieves this best: it covers the temporal halves of both eyes, cutting off side-to-side peripheral input so distractions from the periphery are reduced, while leaving the central vision intact for reading the lines ahead.

Blocking the nasal halves would still allow more of the side (peripheral) input to come in, and would unnecessarily limit central detail, making it harder to read. Completely occluding both eyes would eliminate vision entirely and defeat the purpose of reading. Not occluding at all leaves all peripheral distractions present.