What is the main function of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) in the brain?

The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is crucial for higher-level cognitive functions, primarily involved in planning, decision-making, problem-solving, and regulating social behavior. It allows individuals to think ahead, assess consequences of actions, and make informed choices based on complex scenarios. This part of the brain is highly developed in humans compared to other species and plays a significant role in traits such as self-control, goal-setting, and reasoning.

While coordination of voluntary movements, control of basic survival functions, and sensory processing are vital processes in the brain, they primarily involve different areas such as the motor cortex for movement, the brainstem and hypothalamus for survival functions, and the sensory cortices for processing sensory inputs. The PFC's role is distinct as it integrates information from various areas to guide behavior and adapt to new challenges, showcasing its importance in higher cognitive functioning.