Biopsychology, Function of the Endocrine System

Question 1

what is the endocrine system and what does it do?

Answer 1

• a system of glands that secrete hormones into the bloodstream to regulate organ activity so the body functions properly
• in charge of processes that work slowly e.g. cell growth

Question 2

what are some important structures in the endocrine system?

Answer 2

• pituitary gland: Master Gland, controls release of other glands in the ES
• adrenal gland: produces adrenaline, helps trigger fight or flight
• thyroid gland: produces thyroxine, affects metabolism
• pancreas: regulates glucose levels with production of insulin

Question 3

how does the endocrine system contribute to fight or flight?

Answer 3

• situations of stress/fear/excitement act as a stressor and the hypothalamus in brain activates pituitary gland
• this triggers sympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system; the body shifts from resting state to sympathetic
• adrenaline is released from adrenal medulla which causes physiological changes in the body e.g. increased heart rate