Hierarchies: The Nervous System

• The Nervous system (NS) is 

  • A specialised network of cells 
  • Primary communication system 
  • Biological basis of psychological experience 
• Two functions of the Nervous System are  

  • Collect, process and respond to information in the environment 
  • Coordinate the workings of different organs and cells 
• The Central Nervous System (CNS) controls behaviour and is concerned with life and psychological processes 
• The Brain forms part of the CNS and it maintains life, and is involved with higher functions and psychological processes 
• The Spinal Cord forms part of the CNS and receives and transmits information to and from the brain 
• The Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) transmits information to and from the CNS 
• The Somatic Nervous System (SNS) is part of the PNS and: 

  • Controls skeletal movements 
  • Transmits information to and from the senses 
  • Transmits information to and from the CNS 
  • Is voluntary and has conscious control 
• The Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) is part of the PNS and: 

  • Is involuntary 
  • Controls the smooth muscles and glands (heart) 
  • Transports information to and from internal organs 
• The Sympathetic NS is part of the ANS and controls Fight/Flight. So, it increases bodily functions (e.g. increased heart rate) 
• The Parasympathetic NS is part of the ANS and controls Rest/Digest. So, it decreases bodily activities/ responses.