The Endocrine System
The endocrine system—the other communication system in the body—is made up of endocrine glands that produce hormones, chemical substances released into the bloodstream to guide such processes as metabolism, growth, and sexual development. Hormones are also involved in regulating emotion-experiencing pleasure, as well as for various motivational and emotional activities and emotional balances in general.
The endocrine system itself is a chemical communication network that sends messages throughout the nervous system via the bloodstream. The endocrine system communicates its messages at a slower speed than the nervous system. Although not a structure of the brain itself, the endocrine system is intimately tied to the hypothalamus because it controls the pituitary gland.
Like neurotransmitters, hormones communicate chemical messages throughout the body, although the speed and mode of transmission are different. Hormones are of interest to psychologists for two reasons. First, hormones trigger changes that occur in our bodies at certain stages of development. Puberty and menopause are two examples of hormone-triggered changes. Second, hormones activate behavioral responses such as aggressiveness, reactions to stress, sexual behavior, alertness, or sleepiness. Hormones can have a dramatic effect on mood, emotional reaction, and the ability to learn. Radical changes in hormones can contribute to serious psychological disorders such as depression.
Adrenal glands release hormones in response to stress and emotion. Catecholamines are a class of chemicals that includes the neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinehprhine. Cortisol is responsible for maintaining the activation of bodily systems during prolonged stress.
Metabolism is the process by which the body converts nutrients into energy. The thyroid gland sits in the neck region and releases hormones that control metabolism rate.
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