A student is preparing for a job interview. The night before the interview, the student is restless and anxious. He has sweaty palms and is experiencing unusual wakefulness. In this scenario, the student's physiological responses can be best attributed to the ______ nervous system.
Multiple Choice:
- central
- somatic
- parasympathetic
- sympathetic
Answer (2)
The student's physiological responses are best attributed to the sympathetic nervous system, which activates the 'fight or flight' response during stressful situations. This includes symptoms like anxiety and sweaty palms. Therefore, the correct answer is 'sympathetic.'
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In this scenario, the student's physiological responses are best attributed to the sympathetic nervous system.
The sympathetic nervous system is part of the autonomic nervous system, which controls bodily functions that are not consciously directed, such as breathing, the heartbeat, and digestive processes. The autonomic nervous system is divided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, each with specific functions:
Sympathetic Nervous System : This system is often referred to as the 'fight or flight' system. It prepares the body for intense physical activity and is responsible for increasing heart rate, raising blood pressure, and activating the body's energy stores. In this case, the student's sweaty palms, restlessness, and unusual wakefulness signify that the sympathetic nervous system is responding to the stress associated with anticipating a job interview.
Parasympathetic Nervous System : Often called the 'rest and digest' system, this system helps to conserve energy and is responsible for activities that occur when the body is at rest, like digestion and repair.
In summary, the student's symptoms of anxiety and physiological stress indicate an activation of the sympathetic nervous system as a response to the stress of the upcoming interview.
Thus, the correct multiple-choice option is the sympathetic nervous system.
