Which part of the nervous system is responsible for the 'fight or flight' response?
A. Parasympathetic nervous system
B. Peripheral nervous system
C. Central nervous system
D. Sympathetic nervous system
Answer (2)
The 'fight or flight' response is primarily regulated by the Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS). This part of the autonomic nervous system prepares the body to respond to threats through physiological changes such as increased heart rate and adrenaline release. Therefore, the correct answer is D. Sympathetic nervous system.
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The part of the nervous system responsible for the 'fight or flight' response is the (D) Sympathetic nervous system.
The 'fight or flight' response is a physiological reaction that occurs in response to a perceived harmful event, attack, or threat to survival. This response prepares the body to either confront or flee from the threat. Here's how it works:
Activation: When you perceive danger, signals are sent to the brain where the hypothalamus activates the sympathetic nervous system.
Effects on the Body: The activation triggers the adrenal glands to release adrenaline (also known as epinephrine) and noradrenaline into the bloodstream. These hormones cause several changes in the body:
Increased heart rate: Helps pump more blood to essential organs and muscles.
Dilated airways: Allows more oxygen to enter the lungs.
Increased blood flow to muscles: Prepares muscles for rapid engagement in physical activity.
Increased alertness: Makes you more aware of your surroundings.
Pupils dilate: Enhances vision.
Suppression of non-essential functions: Digestion slows down, conserving energy for immediate action.
What Happens Next: Once the perceived threat is gone, the parasympathetic nervous system helps return the body to a state of calmness and maintains normal functions, often described as the 'rest and digest' phase.
The sympathetic nervous system is part of the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions. It plays an essential role in preparing the body to face emergencies and is crucial for survival.
This response is deeply rooted in our biology, allowing humans and other animals to react swiftly to danger.
