Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC) Practice

Which part of the central nervous system is primarily responsible for emotion, memory, and drive?

1. Cerebral cortex

2. Limbic system

3. Brain stem

4. Cerebellum

The correct answer is: Limbic system

The limbic system is primarily responsible for emotion, memory, and drive within the central nervous system. This complex set of structures includes the hippocampus, amygdala, and several other associated structures, which play critical roles in processing emotions and forming memories. The limbic system interacts with various parts of the brain to regulate emotional responses and is significantly involved in the motivation and drive related to behaviors. In contrast, the cerebral cortex is more involved in higher-level processes such as reasoning, decision-making, and sensory perception, while the brain stem controls vital functions like breathing and heart rate. The cerebellum, on the other hand, is primarily responsible for coordination and balance rather than emotional or memory processing. Therefore, the central role of the limbic system in emotional and memory functions sets it apart as the correct answer.