Biopsychology: The nervous system

• The nervous system is an important network of cells that acts as a primary communication system.
• The nervous system has two main functions:

To collect, respond and process external information e.g. A bee sting.

To co-ordinate the workings of different organs ans cells within the body e.g. use reflex action to move away from bee.

• It is divided into the CNS & PNS.

• The CNS consists of the brain and spinal cord.
• The brain is the focus of all concious awareness.
• The outer layer of the brain, the cerebral cortex is the area that has been linked with mental functions.
• The spinal cord is an extension of the brain and it is responsible for reflex actions.
• The brain is divided into two hemisphere.

• The PNS transmits messages via millions of neurons (nerve cells) to and from the CNS.
• The PNS is made up of two subdivided components.

ANS (Autonomic nervous system)- This controls all vital body functions such as breathing, it is divided into the sypmathetic nervous system and parasympathetic nervous system.

SNS (Somatic Nervous System)- Controls muscle movement and recieves information form sensory receptors.