Biopsychology : The Endocrine System Flashcards
What is and does the autonomic system contain?
It functions outside of our conscious control and deals with functions vital to our survival.
It contains the parasympathetic and sympathetic systems
Difference between both the p and s systems
The parasympathetic system is the ‘rest and digest’ mode so PNS relaxes once the threat has disappeared and for example, slows the heart rate or constricts pupils or stimulates digestion
The sympathetic system is the ‘fight or flight mode and is used to help to deal with emergencies. It prepares the body for rapid action
NON ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS ARE SHUT DOWN
For example the pupils dilate or the heartbeat accelerates or stimulates adrenaline rush
What are the major subdivisions of the human nervous system
PNS -> autonomic -> parasympathetic or sympathetic
PNS -> somatic
CNS -> brain
CNS -> spinal cord
What is the endocrine system and its main function?
It is in charge of the body processes that happen slowly and the faster ones such as breathing and body movement
It works SIMULTANEOUSLY with the nervous system
The stress hormone ADRENALINE is realised by the adrenal medulla
It triggers the physiological arousal associated with the fight or flight response
