the function of the endocrine system Flashcards
what is the endocrine system
network of glands. main chemical messenger system of the body, where hormones are secreted into the bloodstream from glands, and then are transported towards target cells in the blood, with complementary receptors
what are hormones?
chemical messengers secreted from structures (glands) in the body which pass through the bloodstream in our body and behaviour.
what are the pituitary gland
“master” gland because it controls the release of hormones from other glands in the body
what is the adrenal gland
releases adrenaline which creates the physiological arousal preceding the fight or flight response
what is the fight or flight response ?
is a sequence of activity within the body that is triggered when the body prepares itself for defending or attacking fight or running away (flight)
what is the stress response
aka fight or flight is hardwired into our brains and represents an evolutionary adaption designed to increase an organisms chances of survival in life-threating situations
what two major systems does the fight or flight response involve
The Sympathomedullary pathway- deals with acute (short term, immediate) stressors such as personal attack
pituitary-adrenal system- deals with chronic (long-term) stressors such as stressful jobs