As alcohol affects major areas of the brain, which of the following changes is most likely to occur?

• A. Increased sensory acuity and faster reaction times
• B. Heightened emotional regulation and reduced impulsivity
• C. Impaired judgment and decreased inhibition
• D. Enhanced memory formation and improved concentration

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that alcohol primarily acts as a central nervous system depressant, affecting brain areas responsible for judgment, inhibition, and motor control.
2. Recognize that increased sensory acuity and faster reaction times are unlikely because alcohol generally slows down neural processing and impairs sensory and motor functions.
3. Consider that heightened emotional regulation and reduced impulsivity are not typical effects of alcohol; instead, alcohol often reduces emotional control and increases impulsivity.
4. Note that enhanced memory formation and improved concentration contradict the known cognitive impairments caused by alcohol, which usually include memory lapses and difficulty focusing.
5. Conclude that the most consistent and well-documented effect of alcohol on the brain is impaired judgment and decreased inhibition, due to its depressive effects on the frontal lobes.