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

Which part of the brain is substantially responsible for higher functions including movement and reasoning?

1. Cerebellum

2. Cortex (cerebral)

3. Brainstem

4. Limbic System

The correct answer is: Cortex (cerebral)

The cortex, or cerebral cortex, is the region of the brain that plays a pivotal role in higher cognitive functions, including reasoning, decision-making, and voluntary movement. It is an outer layer of neural tissue that surrounds the inner structures of the brain and is divided into several lobes, each associated with different functions. For instance, the frontal lobe, a significant part of the cortex, is heavily involved in executive functions such as planning, problem-solving, and controlling behavior, while the motor cortex in this region regulates voluntary movements. This capability allows individuals to perform complex tasks that require thought and deliberation. In contrast, the cerebellum primarily influences coordination and balance rather than higher cognitive functions. The brainstem is mainly responsible for regulating basic life functions such as heartbeat and breathing, and the limbic system is involved in emotional regulation and memory rather than higher reasoning or movement control. Thus, the cortex is accurately recognized as responsible for the higher functions mentioned in the question.