Neuroscience 1 - Divisions of the Nervous System

1. Describe the different divisions of the peripheral nervous system and their functions. 2. Identify the different forms of protection offered to the central nervous system. 3. Explain the two branches of the autonomic nervous system and their distinct functions. 4. Understand why drugs used to treat psychological conditions lead to side effects in the body.

Central Nervous System (CNS) is made up of:

• Brain

• Brain stem

• Spinal cord

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) is made up of:

• The rest

• All of the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord

Purpose of the PNS

Connects the CNS to the rest of the body

What actions is the PNS responsible for?

The four F’s

• Feeding

• Fight

• Flight

• Sexual arousal

What two systems can the PNS be split into?

• Somatic Nervous System

• Autonomic Nervous System

What two systems can the Autonomic System be split into?

• Sympathetic

• Parasympathetic

What is Sympathetic Nervous System responsible for?

• Emergency

• Exercise

• Excitement

• Embarrasment

What happens in the body when the Sympathetic nervous system is engaged?

• Heart rate increases

• Airways widen

• More blood travels to heart, lungs and skeletal muscle

• Less blood to skin and the abdominopelvic organs

• Breakdown of fuel reserves

What is the Parasympathetic Nervous System responsible for?

• Digestion

• Defecation

• Diuresis

What happens in the body when the Parasympathetic nervous system is engaged?

• Heart rate lowers (conserves energy)

• Airways narrow

• More blood travels to the digestive and urinary system

• Digestive activity increases