National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level I (NCAC I) Practice Exam

What are the two major pathways of the autonomic nervous system?

1. Somatic and motor

2. Sympathetic and parasympathetic

3. Peripheral and central

4. Brain and spinal cord

The correct answer is: Sympathetic and parasympathetic

The two major pathways of the autonomic nervous system are indeed the sympathetic and parasympathetic pathways. The sympathetic pathway is often described as the "fight or flight" system because it prepares the body to respond to stress or emergency situations by increasing heart rate, dilating pupils, and inhibiting digestive functions. In contrast, the parasympathetic pathway is referred to as the "rest and digest" system; it promotes maintenance activities during calm and restful periods, lowering heart rate and enhancing digestive processes. Together, these pathways work in tandem to maintain homeostasis within the body, allowing it to respond appropriately to varying internal and external environments. Understanding these pathways is crucial as they have distinct anatomical and physiological roles, which reflect their responses to different stimuli. The other options presented do not accurately represent the autonomic nervous system’s structure or function, as they either refer to other bodily systems or components not specific to autonomic regulation.