ATI Pathophysiology Practice Exam

Which of the following types of muscle tissue is under voluntary control?

1. Smooth

2. Cardiac

3. Skeletal

4. Connective

The correct answer is: Skeletal

Skeletal muscle tissue is the only type of muscle that is under voluntary control. This means that individuals can consciously control movements of this muscle type, which is primarily attached to the bones and responsible for movements such as walking, lifting, and other activities that require intentional motor function. Skeletal muscles are characterized by a striated appearance and are innervated by the somatic nervous system. In contrast, smooth muscle tissue, found in the walls of internal organs and blood vessels, operates involuntarily and is controlled by the autonomic nervous system. Cardiac muscle, which makes up the heart, is also involuntary and has its own intrinsic rhythm governed by the cardiac conduction system. Connective tissue, while crucial in supporting and connecting different tissues and organs, does not classify as a type of muscle tissue at all. This distinction reinforces that among the options given, only skeletal muscle tissue is defined by its voluntary control.