1-2. ROLE OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

a. The nervous system has three general functions that it performs in the role of the body's control center and communication network. The functions are:

(1) The nervous system is able to sense change both inside the body and change in the environment surrounding the body.

(2) The nervous system is able to interpret these changes.

(3) The nervous system causes the body to react to these changes by either muscular contraction or glandular secretion.

b. Homeostasis is a good example of the nervous system sensing change, interpreting change, and adjusting to change. (In homeostasis, the equilibrium of factors such as temperature, blood pressure, and chemicals are kept in relative balance.) In the case of homeostasis, the nervous system and the endocrine system operate together to maintain equilibrium in the body.