National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level 2 (NCAC II) Practice Exam Exam

Which neurotransmitter type is primarily found in the basal ganglia and facilitates muscle action?

1. Acetylcholine

2. Epinephrine

3. Dopamine

4. Gamma-Amino-Butyric Acid (GABA)

The correct answer is: Acetylcholine

The primary neurotransmitter involved in facilitating muscle action within the basal ganglia is dopamine. This region of the brain plays a critical role in the regulation of movement and coordination. Dopamine helps to modulate the signals transmitted between the brain's motor pathways, allowing for smooth and controlled movements. In the context of addiction counseling, understanding the role of dopamine is essential because it is also closely associated with the brain's reward system. Dysregulation of dopamine can lead to issues such as compulsive behaviors or substance use disorders, making it important for addiction counselors to be aware of its functions. The other neurotransmitters listed serve different roles; for example, acetylcholine primarily influences muscle contractions but is not as dominant in the basal ganglia's role concerning movement facilitation.