Biopsych Flashcards
what is the nervous system
network of cells in the human body
and the body’s internal communication system
what is the function of the nervous system
to collect, process and respond to info from the environment
and control organs and cells in the body
2 system of the nervous system
central NS
peripheral NS
what is the function of the peripheral nervous system
send messages to and from the CNS via neurons
2 subsystems of the CNS
brain
spinal cord
what is the function of the brain
initiates responses
stores memories
responsible for higher mental functions
what is the function of the spinal cord
conducts signals to and from the brain
connects nerves to the PNS
controls reflex actions such as removing a hand when touching a hot plate
what are the 2 subsystems in the PNS
autonomic NS
somatic NS
what is the comparisons between the ANS and SMS
(A)responsible for involuntary responses for vital functions eg. breathing WHEREAS (S) responsible for voluntary movements such as walking
(A) controls smooth and cardiac muscles and glands WHEREAS (S) transits controls the skeletal muscles
(A) control centres are in the brain stem WHEREAS (S) carries commands from the motor cortex
what are the 2 subsystems (branches) in the Autonomic NS
sympathetic branch
parasympathetic branch
what is the function of the sympathetic branch
fight or flight response
what is the function of the parasympathetic branch
conserve and restore body energy when relaxed
