On the way home from the library last night you heard the footsteps of someone following you. You turned and saw the shadow of a large man heading towards you. You ran to your car faster than you had ever run. By the time you got to your car your heart rate was rapid and you were sweating. This fight or flight response was most likely the result of activity in your
A) somatic nervous system.
B) sympathetic nervous system.
C) parasympathetic nervous system.
D) central nervous system.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fight or flight response is a physiological reaction to perceived danger or threat, which is controlled by the sympathetic nervous system. This includes an increase in heart rate and sweating, as described in the scenario. The somatic nervous system controls voluntary movements, and the parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for rest and digestion. The central nervous system includes the brain and spinal cord, but does not specifically control the fight or flight response.

On the Way Home from the Library Last Night You