Biopsychology - Nervous System Flashcards
What is the nervous system?
A specialised network of cells in the human body which is also a primary internal communication system.
What are the two key functions of the nervous system?
To collect, process and respond to information in the environment.
To coordinate the working of different organs and cells in the body.
What are the two subsystems the nervous system is divided into?
The central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system.
What is the central nervous system made up of and what role does it play?
Its made up of the brain and spinal cord, the brain = centre of consciousness. It has an outer layer called the cerebral cortex which is highly developed and distinguishes us from animals. The brain is divided into two hemispheres. Spinal-cord is an extension of the brain responsible for reflex actions and passing messages to and from the brain and connecting nerves to the PNS.
What is the peripheral nervous system made up of and what does it do?
The PNS is divided into the autonomous nervous system which governs vital functions in the body like breathing, and the somatic nervous system which controls muscle movements and receives information from sensory receptors. The PNS as a whole transmits messages via neurons to and from the central nervous system.
What is the further division of the autonomic nervous system?
The autonomic nervous system is further divided into the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system.
The sympathetic system raises arousal and heightens alertness. The parasympathetic system bring the body back down to its normal state afterwards.
