The endocrine system Flashcards
What is the endocrine system made up of?
Glands
How do hormones circulate within the body?
Through blood and other bodily fluid
Where is the pituitary gland located?
Behind the bridge of the nose and to the base of the brain below the hypothalamus
Which hormone that psychologists are particularly interested in is released from the pituitary gland?
Oxytocin
When is the fight or flight response activated?
In times of stress or threat
Which system is in charge of the fight or flight response?
The sympathetic nervous system
What is the first stage of the sympathomedullary pathway of the fight or flight response?
The hypothalamus perceives a theat and sends a signal to the pituitary gland, which releases ACTH to stimulate the adrenal glands
What is the second stage of the sympathomedullary pathway of the fight or flight response?
The adrenal medulla within the adrenal glands triggers the release of the hormone adrenaline into the endocrine system and the neurotransmitter noradrenaline into the brain to ready the body for fight or flight
What is the third stage of the sympathomedullary pathway of the fight or flight response?
Physical changes occur within the body that help an individual to fight or run away from the threatening stressor - e.g. increased heart rate, muscle tension and pupil dilation
How much faster can we run when we are stressed?
20%
Why is the fight or flight response maladaptive to society today?
The response is designed for threats that only last half an hour, but most modern stresses occur over long periods of time, which can cause physical problems when the state is maintained
What does the adrenal gland split into?
The adrenal medulla and adrenal cortex
What hormone is released by the pituitary gland during the fight or flight response that stimulates the adrenal gland?
ACTH
Which part of the adrenal gland produces adrenaline?
Medulla
