What characterizes voluntary actions?

Voluntary actions are characterized by being under one's control, which means that individuals consciously decide to perform them. This level of control entails a deliberative process where the individual weighs the potential outcomes and chooses to act accordingly. Such actions are typically initiated by higher-level brain functions, where planning and intention play significant roles.

In contrast, the other options describe actions that lack this level of conscious control. For instance, functioning without awareness refers to automatic behaviors that occur without conscious thought, while involuntary reflex responses are reactions triggered by external stimuli without deliberate intent. Similarly, actions that are automatic may occur without active decision-making and do not involve the same level of conscious engagement as voluntary actions. Thus, the defining characteristic of voluntary actions is their intentional nature, allowing individuals to exert control over their behavior.