Bio psychology : the nervous system and the endocrine system

• What is the primary function of the nervous system?

  To collect, process and respond to information in the environment.
• What are the two main functions of the nervous system?

  To collect, process and respond to information, and to co-ordinate the working of different organs and cells.
• What are the two sub-systems of the nervous system?

  • Central nervous system (CNS)
  • Peripheral nervous system (PNS)
• What does the central nervous system (CNS) consist of?

  The brain and the spinal cord.
• Why is the cerebral cortex significant in humans?

  It is highly developed and distinguishes our higher mental functions from those of animals.
• What is the role of the spinal cord?

  It is responsible for reflex actions and passes messages to and from the brain.
• How does the peripheral nervous system (PNS) function?

  It transmits messages to and from the central nervous system via neurons.
• What are the two divisions of the peripheral nervous system?

  • Autonomic nervous system (ANS)
  • Somatic nervous system (SNS)
• What does the autonomic nervous system (ANS) govern?

  Vital functions such as breathing, heart rate, digestion, and stress responses.
• What is the function of the somatic nervous system (SNS)?

  It controls muscle movement and receives information from sensory receptors.
• What are the two major physiological systems that regulate behavior in response to the environment?

  The nervous system and the endocrine system.
• What does the endocrine system do?

  • Instructs glands to release hormones into the bloodstream
  • Hormones are carried to target organs
• What is a gland?

  An organ that synthesizes substances such as hormones.
• What are hormones?

  Chemical substances that circulate in the bloodstream and affect target organs.
• What is the fight or flight response?

  The physiological arousal of the body in readiness to fight or flee when stressed.
• What hormone is produced by the adrenal glands during stress?

  Adrenaline.
• What effects does adrenaline have on the cardiovascular system?

  It stimulates heart rate, contracts blood vessels, and dilates air passages.
• What are the two main divisions of the autonomic nervous system?

  • Sympathetic nervous system
  • Parasympathetic nervous system
• How does the endocrine system interact with the nervous system?

  • Controls vital functions in the body
  • Acts more slowly than the nervous system