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AP Psychology vocabulary from collegeboard.
Nervous System
The ultimate communication network in your body — managing everything from your reaction time to your heartbeat.
Levels of the Nervous System
Nervous system → Central Nervous System and Peripheral Nervous System
Peripheral nervous system → Autonomic and Somatic
Autonomic → Sympathetic and Parasympathetic
The Central Nervous System components
The brain and spinal cord
The Central Nervous System function
Acts as the command center — processing information and sending instructions throughout the body
Reflexes definition
Reflexes are automatic responses to stimuli, like pulling your hand away from a hot stove
Reflexes role
Reflex actions are quick because the signals travel only to the spinal cord and back, skipping the brain for speed
The Peripheral Nervous System components
All the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord
The Peripheral Nervous System function
Connects the CNS to the rest of the body — like the highways and back roads that connect cities
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.
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
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
The Sympathetic Nervous System key responses
Fight or Flight
Increases heart rate, dilates pupils, and releases adrenaline.
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
The Parasympathetic Nervous System key responses
Rest and Digest
Slows the heart rate, increases digestion, and relaxes muscles
Note 
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