Biopsychology

• Divisions of the Nervous System

  • Central Nervous System
  • Peripheral Nervous System
• Nervous system


  A complex network of cells that transmit signals between different parts of the body
• The nervous system is responsible for coordinating the body's actions and responses to the external environment
• Central Nervous System (CNS)


  Consists of the brain and spinal cord; control center of the body
• Brain


  Involved in higher functions such as thinking, memory, and emotions
• Spinal Cord


  Responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body
• Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)


  Consists of all the nerves outside the central nervous system
• Subdivisions of the Peripheral Nervous System

  • Somatic Nervous System
  • Autonomic Nervous System
• Somatic Nervous System


  Responsible for voluntary movements and transmits sensory information to the CNS
• Somatic Nervous System controls skeletal muscles and is involved in activities such as walking, talking, and writing
• Autonomic Nervous System


  Responsible for regulating involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, digestion, and respiration
• Subdivisions of the Autonomic Nervous System

  • Sympathetic Nervous System
  • Parasympathetic Nervous System
• Sympathetic Nervous System


  Responsible for the body's fight-or-flight response
• Sympathetic Nervous System prepares the body for action in stressful situations
• Parasympathetic Nervous System


  Responsible for the body's rest-and-digest response
• Parasympathetic Nervous System conserves energy and promotes relaxation
• Functions of the Sympathetic Nervous System

  • Increases heart rate
  • Dilates airways
  • Redirects blood flow to the muscles
• Functions of the Parasympathetic Nervous System

  • Slows heart rate
  • Constrics airways
  • Stimulates digestion
• Both the somatic and autonomic nervous systems work together to ensure the body functions properly
• Damage or dysfunction in any part of the nervous system can lead to a variety of neurological disorders and impairments
• The divisions of the nervous system play crucial roles in maintaining the body's homeostasis and ensuring proper functioning