Aqa A Level Psychology: Biopsychology Unlocking The Brain,

AQA A LEVEL PSYCHOLOGY: BIOPSYCHOLOGY - UNLOCKING THE BRAIN, BEHAVIOUR & BEYOND! AQA A Level Psychology - Biopsychology: What components make up the central nervous system? the brain and spinal cord What is the function of the brain? - the brain is the centre of awareness - it controls perception and motor control - it is responsible for regulating bodily processes and maintaining homeostasis (e.g. maintaining temperature and hormone levels based on information from the peripheral nervous system) Describe the divisions of the nervous system. brain labelled What is the function of the spinal cord? Relays information between the brain and body Coordinates reflexes via reflex arc (automatic responses) Transmits sensory signals from body to brain Sends motor commands from brain to muscles/glandsWhat is the structure of the peripheral nervous system? - Made of sensory and motor neurones Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): outside the brain and spinal cord Somatic Nervous System: controls voluntary movements; sensory & motor pathways Autonomic Nervous System (ANS): controls involuntary functions (e.g., heart rate, digestion) -> Sympathetic Nervous System: "fight or flight"; increases arousal ->Parasympathetic Nervous System: "rest and digest"; calms the body after arousal What is the function of the peripheral nervous system? Connects CNS