In fight-or-flight response, which system is activated?

• A. Parasympathetic nervous system
• B. Sympathetic nervous system
• C. Central nervous system
• D. Somatic nervous system

Answer: (B)

In a fight-or-flight moment the body switches into sympathetic nervous system mode, part of the autonomic nervous system, preparing you for rapid action. This activation raises heart rate and blood pressure, opens airways, dilates pupils, shifts blood toward the muscles, and releases glucose for quick energy, while slowing digestion to conserve resources. The parasympathetic system promotes rest and digestion, the central nervous system refers to the brain and spinal cord, and the somatic nervous system handles voluntary muscles. Therefore, the sympathetic nervous system is the one activated in this response.