Which statement correctly describes the overall division of the autonomic nervous system?

Which statement correctly describes the overall division of the autonomic nervous system?

• A. Sympathetic handles rest and digest; Parasympathetic handles fight or flight.
• B. Sympathetic handles fight or flight; Parasympathetic handles rest and digest.
• C. Both divisions handle rest and digest equally.
• D. Neither division influences autonomic functions.

Answer: (B)

The autonomic nervous system is organized into two main divisions that typically have opposite actions: one prepares the body for action, the other promotes rest and maintenance. The division responsible for fight-or-flight responses ramps up activity—heart rate and cardiac output increase, airways dilate, energy is mobilized, and digestion is slowed. The other division promotes rest-and-digest activities—slowing the heart, constricting pupils, stimulating digestion, and conserving energy for routine maintenance. Because of these complementary roles, the accurate description is that the fight-or-flight function is handled by the first division, while the rest-and-digest functions are handled by the second division. The other statements conflict with this well-established division of labor, or incorrectly claim equal involvement in these states or no influence at all.

The autonomic nervous system is organized into two main divisions that typically have opposite actions: one prepares the body for action, the other promotes rest and maintenance. The division responsible for fight-or-flight responses ramps up activity—heart rate and cardiac output increase, airways dilate, energy is mobilized, and digestion is slowed. The other division promotes rest-and-digest activities—slowing the heart, constricting pupils, stimulating digestion, and conserving energy for routine maintenance. Because of these complementary roles, the accurate description is that the fight-or-flight function is handled by the first division, while the rest-and-digest functions are handled by the second division. The other statements conflict with this well-established division of labor, or incorrectly claim equal involvement in these states or no influence at all.