Unit 1.2 - Overview of the Nervous System

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AP Psychology vocabulary from collegeboard.

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14 Terms

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Nervous System

The ultimate communication network in your body — managing everything from your reaction time to your heartbeat.

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Levels of the Nervous System

Nervous system → Central Nervous System and Peripheral Nervous System

Peripheral nervous system → Autonomic and Somatic

Autonomic → Sympathetic and Parasympathetic

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The Central Nervous System components

The brain and spinal cord

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The Central Nervous System function

Acts as the command center — processing information and sending instructions throughout the body

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Reflexes definition

Reflexes are automatic responses to stimuli, like pulling your hand away from a hot stove

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Reflexes role

Reflex actions are quick because the signals travel only to the spinal cord and back, skipping the brain for speed

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The Peripheral Nervous System components

All the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord

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The Peripheral Nervous System function

Connects the CNS to the rest of the body — like the highways and back roads that connect cities

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The Somatic Nervous System function

Controls voluntary movements of skeletal muscles. Think of it as your personal driver’s seat — when you decide to move, it’s the somatic nervous system at work.

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The Autonomic Nervous System function

Controls involuntary actions like heartbeat, digestion, and breathing — basically all the stuff you don’t think about but can’t like without

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The Sympathetic Nervous System function

Prepares your body for action in stressful situations — like when you’re startled, your heart races, and your palms sweat

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The Sympathetic Nervous System key responses

Fight or Flight

Increases heart rate, dilates pupils, and releases adrenaline.

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The Parasympathetic Nervous System function

Calms the body down after a stressful event. It’s like hitting the “chill button” to slow your heart rate and conserve energy

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The Parasympathetic Nervous System key responses

Rest and Digest

Slows the heart rate, increases digestion, and relaxes muscles