Biopsychology Flashcards
What is the CNS comprised of?
The brain and spinal cord
Role of the central nervous system
Receives sensory information and controls bodily responses
Brain- divided into different areas that handles different functions (higher mental processes)
Spinal cord- relays info between brain and rest of body
What is the Peripheral Nervous System comprised of?
Nerves outside of the CNS
Role of the Peripheral Nervous System
Relays nerve impulses between CNS and rest of body
Has two main divisions: Autonomic and Somatic
What is the Somatic Nervous System comprised of?
Motor and sensory neurones
Role of Somatic Nervous System
Nerves which receive input from sense organs and send output to control voluntary muscle movement
Role of Autonomic Nervous System
Connects with and controls internal organs and glands
Controls involuntary functions and only uses motor pathways
Two main divisions: Sympathetic and Parasympathetic
Role of Sympathetic Nervous System
Arousing effect on body
e.g Prepping body for ‘Fight or Flight’
Role of Parasympathetic Nervous System
Calming effect on the body
Helps body return to homeostasis after a period of excitation
