Growth and myelination of fibers linking the cerebellum to the cerebral cortex contributes to __________ in early childhood.
A) a strong hand preference
B) suppression of impulses in favor of thoughtful responses
C) dramatic gains in motor coordination
D) dramatic gains in spatial skills

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The cerebellum is responsible for movement coordination and balance. As the fibers linking the cerebellum to the cerebral cortex grow and myelinate, it leads to dramatic gains in motor coordination in early childhood.

Answer: B 
 The prefrontal cortex, which is involved in decision-making and impulse control, is still developing in early childhood. The growth and myelination of fibers linking the cerebellum to the cerebral cortex may contribute to improved suppression of impulses in favor of thoughtful responses.

Answer: D 
 While the cerebellum is primarily associated with motor coordination, there is some evidence to suggest that it may also play a role in spatial processing. However, the evidence linking cerebellar growth and myelination to gains in spatial skills in early childhood is not as strong as the evidence linking it to gains in motor coordination.

Therefore, the best choice, according to the given options, is C.

Growth and Myelination of Fibers Linking the Cerebellum to the Cerebral