Question

The ------are involved in higher-order executive functions such as the ability to make and carry out plans, switch between tasks, and maintain attention and focus.

cerebellum and hippocampus
prefrontal and frontal cortex
hippocampus and limbic system
cerebellum and amygdala

Answer 1

The prefrontal and frontal cortex are responsible for higher-order executive functions such as planning, task-switching, and maintaining focus, while the amygdala and hippocampus are related to emotions and memory, not executive functioning.

Step-by-step explanation:

The regions of the brain that are involved in higher-order executive functions such as the ability to make and carry out plans, switch between tasks, and maintain attention and focus are the prefrontal and frontal cortex. The prefrontal cortex, in particular, is responsible for executive functions leading to goal-directed behaviors, including working memory, attention, inhibiting distractions, and directing behavior to achieve goals.

In contrast, the amygdala is involved in regulating emotions and in memory consolidation, particularly emotional memory, while the hippocampus is associated with declarative and episodic memory. Neither the amygdala nor the hippocampus are primarily involved in executive functions attributed to the frontal cortex and prefrontal cortex.