Which system is part of the peripheral nervous system that controls voluntary movements?

Prepare for the IDLA Dual Credit (DC) Psychology Test. Enhance your knowledge with interactive flashcards and dynamic multiple choice questions, each with valuable hints and explanations. Be thoroughly prepared for your examination!

The somatic nervous system is responsible for controlling voluntary movements of skeletal muscles. It is a component of the peripheral nervous system and plays a vital role in the conscious control of actions such as walking, typing, or any other activities that require voluntary muscle contraction. This system enables individuals to perform movements that are intentional and deliberate, as opposed to involuntary actions such as reflexes or those governed by the autonomic nervous system.

The autonomic nervous system, while part of the peripheral nervous system, regulates involuntary bodily functions like heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate. The peripheral nervous system itself encompasses both somatic and autonomic systems but does not specifically control voluntary movements. Lastly, the central nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord, which process information and coordinate activity but does not directly control voluntary movements on its own. Thus, the somatic nervous system is the correct answer as it specifically pertains to voluntary motor control.

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