The sense of body orientation and self-motion is controlled by which system?

The sense of body orientation and self-motion is primarily governed by the vestibular system. This system consists of structures located in the inner ear that help maintain balance and spatial orientation. It detects changes in head position and motion, allowing the body to understand its position in space and respond appropriately to prevent falls or maintain equilibrium during movement.

The proprioceptive system also plays a crucial role in body awareness; it provides feedback from muscles and joints about their position and movement. This system is essential for coordinating movements, but it does not primarily control the sense of self-motion.

While the cognitive system is important for interpreting sensory information and making decisions based on it, the direct sense of body orientation and self-motion is not its primary function. Similarly, the visual system contributes to spatial awareness by providing visual cues about the environment and body position but is not solely responsible for the sense of self-motion. The vestibular system’s specialized structures make it key in governing the perception of balance and motion.