Final answer:
The first thing that alcohol affects is judgment. This cognitive impairment precedes physical symptoms such as compromised coordination, which can be observed in tasks like the Field Sobriety Test. Excessive drinking may also lead to more severe health and social consequences.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first thing alcohol affects is C) Judgment. Even at low doses, alcohol consumption can lead to feelings of euphoria, and as the quantity increases, it also leads to sedation and a notable decrease in behavioral control. Before affecting motor skills like coordination and balance, which the cerebellum regulates, alcohol first impairs the brain's cognitive functions related to judgment. This impairment can manifest in difficulty with making decisions and assessing risks accurately, often leading to behaviors such as driving while intoxicated or engaging in unsafe activities. The immediate effect of alcohol depends on an individual's blood alcohol concentration (BAC), which can vary widely based on factors such as age, sex, weight, and health conditions. Even with moderate alcohol consumption, coordination can be compromised, as observed in Field Sobriety Tests used by law enforcement to assess if drivers are under the influence. However, it's the impairment of judgment that often precedes the physical symptoms, making it a critical concern for safety and decision-making.