Motor Systems: Autonomic Motor

The autonomic nervous system is specialized for control of body functions which must occur continuously without conscious input. This is in contrast to the somatic or voluntary motor system which only operates when we are conscious and intend to make a movement.

Objectives in this section include:

1. Interpret a flowchart showing the organization of the autonomic nervous system.
2. Discuss the key features of the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system.
3. Discuss the key features of the parasympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system.
4. Recognize the mechanisms by which heart rate is controlled in the autonomic nervous system.
5. Describe the circuitry which controls pupil size.
6. Illustrate the process for making saliva (salivation).
7. Explain the process for making tears (lacrimation).
8. Describe the pathways that control urination (micturition).
9. Identify the process that expels feces (defecation).
10. Recognize the mechanisms by which the autonomic nervous system regulates digestive processes.
11. Explain how the autonomic nervous system regulates perspiration.
12. State how the autonomic nervous system regulates blood flow.