Biopsychology - The Divisions of the Nervous System Flashcards
What is the nervous system?
A network of cells in the human body, the body’s internal communication system.
What is the function of the nervous system?
To collect, process and respond to information from the environment and to control organs and cells in the body.
What is the nervous system split up into?
Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)
What is the Central Nervous System split up into?
The Brain and the Spinal Cord
What is the function of the brain?
- Receives and processes information from the senses
- Responsible for higher mental functions
- Initiates responses
- Stores memories
What is the function of the Spinal Cord?
- Conducts signals to and from the brain
- Connects nerves to the PNS
- Controls reflex actions
What is the Peripheral Nervous System made up of?
Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) and Somatic Nervous System (SNS)
What are the functions of the Autonomic Nervous System?
- Responsible for involuntary responses for vital functions (e.g breathing, digestion, heart rate)
- Controls smooth + cardiac muscles and glands
- ANS Control centres are in the brain stem.
What are the functions of the Somatic Nervous System?
- Responsible for voluntary movements such as walking
- Transmits information from the brain to control skeletal muscles
- Connects the CNS and the senses
What are the 2 branches off the Autonomic Nervous System?
Sympathetic branch and Parasympathetic branch
What does the Sympathetic Branch do?
Fight or Flight Response
What does the Parasympathetic Branch do?
Conserve & restores body energy when relaxed (Rest + Digest)
