The article discusses the definition of responsibility, defines the structure and its components. And also an analysis of the works of specific authors on the problem of responsibility, a variety of approaches and the ambiguity of the characteristics of this category. The functions of responsibility are considered: sense-forming, normative-regulating, directing, coordinating and mechanisms of perception of responsibility, a heuristic mechanism, an evaluative mechanism, a mechanism of due attitude, a reference mechanism, a motivational mechanism - a mechanism of self-control. Cognitive, motivational, volitional, activity-based components are considered.