[Campbell Biology P.1152] What is the primary function of the brain's reward system, and how ... | Practice Question

What is the primary function of the brain's reward system, and how do addictive drugs generally affect it?

  • A: To regulate sleep cycles; addictive drugs disrupt this regulation.
  • B: To provide motivation for survival and reproduction activities; addictive drugs enhance this system's activity.
  • C: To control voluntary muscle movements; addictive drugs impair coordination.
  • D: To store long-term memories; addictive drugs cause memory loss.

Explanation

The text states that the 'reward system provides motivation for activities that enhance survival and reproduction, such as eating in response to hunger, drinking when thirsty, and engaging in sexual activity when aroused.' It also explicitly mentions that all addictive drugs 'enhance the activity of the dopamine pathway.'