How can alcohol consumption affect decision-making?

Alcohol consumption can significantly impair judgment, which directly affects decision-making abilities. When someone consumes alcohol, it depresses the central nervous system and alters brain function, impacting cognitive processes such as reasoning, judgment, and impulse control. This impairment can lead individuals to make choices they might not consider if sober, including engaging in risky behaviors or misjudging situations.

For example, those under the influence may underestimate the potential consequences of their actions, leading to decisions that could endanger themselves or others, such as driving while intoxicated. The risks associated with impaired decision-making emphasize the importance of responsible alcohol consumption and understanding its effects on behavior.

In contrast, the other options suggest enhancements to cognitive abilities or a lack of impact on decision-making, which do not reflect the reality of how alcohol interacts with brain function.