Which part of the nervous system is responsible for the fight-or-flight response?

The sympathetic nervous system is the part of the nervous system that is primarily responsible for the fight-or-flight response. This response is a physiological reaction that occurs in response to a perceived threat or stressful situation. When activated, the sympathetic nervous system prepares the body to either confront the danger or flee from it by triggering several immediate bodily changes.

These include an increase in heart rate, dilation of the pupils, and redistribution of blood flow to the muscles, enhancing physical performance. Additionally, it prompts the release of adrenaline and other stress hormones, which further contribute to preparing the body for quick action. This response is fundamental for survival as it allows individuals to react rapidly to life-threatening situations.

In contrast, the other systems play different roles: the parasympathetic nervous system tends to promote a state of rest and digest, the central nervous system integrates sensory information and coordinates motor activity, and the somatic nervous system controls voluntary movements of skeletal muscles. None of these are directly involved in the immediate physiological changes associated with the fight-or-flight response, making the sympathetic nervous system the correct choice.