The sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system have opposite physiological effects on various body systems to maintain homeostasis. For example, while the sympathetic nervous system increases heart rate, dilates bronchi, and inhibits digestion, the parasympathetic nervous system slows heart rate, constricts bronchi, and stimulates digestion.

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The autonomic nervous system, a division of the peripheral nervous system, operates largely unconsciously to regulate bodily functions. It primarily controls the body's internal organs and glands and is further divided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems.

Autonomic Nervous System

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

Autonomic ganglia are cell bodies that innervate organs throughout the body.  

Autonomic ganglia 

These are neurons that innervate the autonomic ganglia in the peripheral nervous system. They occupy different regions depending on whether they are in the parasympathetic branch or the sympathetic branch. 

Preganglionic neurons 

These are neurons that innervate different parts of the body. They arise from the ganglia. 

Postganglionic neurons

This is one of the divisions of the autonomic nervous system that consists of a mesh-like network of neurons that plays a role in balancing nutrients and functioning in the gut. 

Enteric Nervous System 

The sympathetic nervous system is a division of the autonomic nervous system that prepares the body for stressful or emergency situations. This activation, often called the "fight or flight" response, mobilizes energy and increases alertness to respond to perceived threats.

Sympathetic Nervous System

The parasympathetic nervous system is a division of the autonomic nervous system that is responsible for the body's "rest and digest" functions. Its activation is associated with normal functioning under relaxed conditions, conserving energy and overseeing routine operations like digestion.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

Read the following scenario. Then, explain the roles of the two major divisions of the body's system for unconscious regulation of internal organs and glands during the initial reaction and the subsequent recovery.

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