PSYC 100 Chapter Notes - Chapter 3: Substance P, Brainstem, Autonomic Nervous System

• School: McGill University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSYC 100
• Professor: Jens Pruessner

Document Summary

Basic units of the nerve system are called the neurons. These cells receive, integrate, and transmit information in the nervous system. They form neural networks which are not random or arbitrary. These two units are anatomically separate but their functions are highly interdependent. The pns transmits signals to the cns where the cns organizes and evaluates the information and then direct the pns to perform specific behaviours and make movements. Nerve cells are excitable (unlike other cells) and are specialized for communication. They"re powered by electrical impulses and communicate with other nerve cells through chemical signals. Reception phase: take up chemicals from other neighbouring cells. Transmission phase: pass their signals to another receiving neurons. They integrate neural activity within a single area rather than transmitting information or signal to the brain. Myelin sheath allows the electrical signals to travel quickly; it encases the neuron; made up of glial cells or neuroglia.