1. The problem asks what is true about the function on the interval $-4 < x < -1$. 2. From the graph description, on the interval $-4 < x < -1$, the function is part of the linear segment decreasing from $(-5,6)$ to $(-2,-1)$. 3. Since the function decreases from $6$ at $x=-5$ to $-1$ at $x=-2$, on the sub-interval $-4 < x < -1$, the function is also decreasing. 4. A function is decreasing on an interval if for any two points $x_1$ and $x_2$ in the interval where $x_1 < x_2$, we have $f(x_1) > f(x_2)$. 5. Therefore, on $-4 < x < -1$, the function's values decrease as $x$ increases. 6. In summary, the function is decreasing on the interval $-4 < x < -1$. Final answer: The function is decreasing on the interval $-4 < x < -1$.