Hawaii Massage License Practice Exam

Which part of the nervous system is primarily responsible for voluntary actions?

1. Autonomic nervous system

2. Central nervous system

3. Peripheral nervous system

4. Enteric nervous system

The correct answer is: Peripheral nervous system

The correct answer is the peripheral nervous system, which plays a crucial role in executing voluntary actions. This system includes all the nerves that branch out from the brain and spinal cord and extends to the rest of the body. It is divided into two main components: the somatic nervous system and the autonomic nervous system. The somatic nervous system is particularly important here because it controls voluntary movements by transmitting signals from the central nervous system to the skeletal muscles, enabling actions such as walking, reaching, and any other intentional movements. In contrast, the autonomic nervous system manages involuntary actions such as heartbeat and digestion, while the central nervous system, which comprises the brain and spinal cord, processes information but does not directly execute voluntary movements. The enteric nervous system primarily regulates the functions of the gastrointestinal system, further distinguishing it from the control of voluntary actions. Therefore, the peripheral nervous system's involvement in the somatic components makes it the primary system responsible for facilitating voluntary movements.