Brain and Neuropsychology Flashcards
Brain and Neuropsychology
What is the nervous system?
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The Nervous System
The nervous system is a network of cells in the human body, the body’s internal communication system which collects, processes, and responds to information from the environment.
Brain and Neuropsychology
How do the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous syetm (PNS) work together to process information and perform actions?
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The Nervous System
The PNS notices changes in the environment through sensory receptors. This sends information through the PNS to the CNS, where the brain processes and interprets it. Once the brain processes the information, it decides an appropriate response which could be voluntary or involuntary.
Brain and Neuropsychology
What are the main components of the CNS and what role do they play?
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The Nervous System
Brain
* Divided into two hemispheres
* Left hemisphere controls the right side of the body and the right controls the left side of the body
* The brain is the centre of conscious awareness and where decision making takes place
Spinal cord
* Sends messages to and from the brain
* Connects the brain with the rest of the body
* Controls reflex actions
Brain and Neuropsychology
What are the main 2 components of the PNS and what role do they play?
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The Nervous System
Automatic NS
* Responsible for involuntary responses for vital functions (e.g. breathing, digestion, heart rate)
* Controls smooth and cardiac muscles and glands
WHERAS
Somatic NS
* Responsible for voluntary movements (e.g. walking, talking)
* Transmits information from the brain to control skeletal muscles
