Which muscle draws the scalp backward?

The muscle that draws the scalp backward is the occipitalis. This muscle is located at the back of the head and is part of the epicranius (or epicranial), which consists of the frontal and occipital muscles. When the occipitalis contracts, it pulls the scalp backward, contributing to movements such as raising the eyebrows or wiggling the scalp. This function is essential for certain facial expressions and helps with activities that require movement of the scalp, like when adjusting hair.

The frontalis muscle, located at the forehead, is primarily responsible for raising the eyebrows and furrowing the forehead, but it does not pull the scalp backward. The temporalis muscle plays a role in moving the jaw and chewing, having no influence over the scalp's position. Lastly, the masseter muscle is crucial for jaw movement during mastication and does not engage with scalp movement at all. Understanding the specific functions of these muscles clarifies why the occipitalis is the correct choice for drawing the scalp backward.