the endocrine system

• what is the endocrine system?

  • network of glands throughout body that uses blood vessels to deliver hormones to target sites in body
  • slower than nervous system but more powerful & widespread effects
• what are 4 major glands?

  1. pituitary
  2. adrenal
  3. testes
  4. ovaries
• function of glands?

  • produce & release hormones which impact behaviour
• what are hormones?

  • chemicals that circulate bloodstream & gets carried to target sites in body
  • influence behaviour
• adrenal gland?

  • secretes adrenaline
  • found above kidneys
  • stimulates fight or flight response
• testes gland?

  • secretes testosterone
  • found in testicles
  • stimulates production of male sex characteristics & linked to aggressive behaviour
• ovaries gland?

  • secretes oestrogen & progesterone
  • used in menstrual cycle/reproduction
• fight or flight response?

  1. occurs in response to threat
  2. when threat is detected sympathomedullary pathway is activated
  3. activates autonomic branch of nervous system
  4. triggers activation of symapathetic nervous system
  5. adrenal gland activated - adrenal medualla
  6. produces adrenaline - released into bloodstream & cortisol also released
  7. leads to increase in heart rate, breathing, blood flows to muscles away from stomach
  8. digestion slows down
  9. pupils dilate & we begin to sweat
  10. is not maintained for long time - once threat is avoided parasympathetic restores physiological calm & restore body to normal