AP Psych Unit 1.2

Sensory neurons

Afferent neurons that send signals from sensory receptors to the central nervous system (CNS).

Motor neurons

Efferent neurons that send signals from the central nervous system (CNS) to the peripheral nervous system (PNS).

Nervous System

A communication network system made up of nerve cells (neurons) that controls the body’s functions.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Made of the brain and spinal cord; processes sensory information and sends out motor commands.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Consists of all the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord; gathers sensory info and relays it to CNS.

Somatic Nervous System

Controls skeletal muscles and voluntary movements under conscious control.

Autonomic Nervous System

Regulates involuntary processes such as heart rate and breathing, operates automatically.

Sympathetic Nervous System

Part of the autonomic nervous system that prepares the body for stressful events (fight or flight).

Parasympathetic Nervous System

Part of the autonomic nervous system that calms the body and conserves energy (rest and digest).

Homeostasis

The state of steady internal, chemical and physical conditions maintained by living organisms.