The video provides an overview of the autonomic nervous system and its two main divisions: the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems. The sympathetic division responds to stress and activates the fight or flight response, leading to various physiological changes such as dilated pupils, increased heart rate, and the release of norepinephrine and epinephrine. In contrast, the parasympathetic division promotes the rest and digest response, causing opposite effects on the organs like constricted pupils and slower heart rate. The video also delves into the anatomy and neurotransmitters involved, discussing terms like preganglionic and postganglionic neurons, adrenergic and cholinergic receptors, and the specific functions of these receptors in various organs and tissues.

Psychology is designed to meet scope and sequence requirements for the single-semester introduction to psychology course. The book offers a comprehensive treatment of core concepts, grounded in both classic studies and current and emerging research. The text also includes coverage of the DSM-5 in examinations of psychological disorders. Psychology incorporates discussions that reflect the diversity within the discipline, as well as the diversity of cultures and communities across the globe.Senior Contributing AuthorsRose M. Spielman, Formerly of Quinnipiac UniversityContributing AuthorsKathryn Dumper, Bainbridge State CollegeWilliam Jenkins, Mercer UniversityArlene Lacombe, Saint Joseph's UniversityMarilyn Lovett, Livingstone CollegeMarion Perlmutter, University of Michigan

By the end of this section, you will be able to:Describe the difference between the central and peripheral nervous systemsExplain the difference between the somatic and autonomic nervous systemsDifferentiate between the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system

By the end of this section, you will be able to:Differentiate between stimulus-based and response-based definitions of stressDefine stress as a processDifferentiate between good stress and bad stressDescribe the early contributions of Walter Cannon and Hans Selye to the stress research fieldUnderstand the physiological basis of stress and describe the general adaptation syndrome