Hormones and Behavior

Hormones and Behavior

Week 2 Checkpoint

By: Me

03/11/2015

These are only a few examples of the glands that are located in the Endocrine system as well as some of the hormones that are secreted from them. There are other glands that secrete different types of hormones that influence the body in many different ways. This paper will cover the Pituitary gland as well as the Adrenal gland as well as the reasoning’s for each of them within the human body.

The Endocrine System plays a big part in the production and distribution of hormones into the body. These hormones can affect an individual’s behavior greatly. The Endocrine System is made up of several different endocrine glands the pituitary gland, pineal gland, thyroid gland, and adrenal gland. Each gland secretes different hormones that have many different effects on the body and behavior. A hormone is a chemical that is secreted from a gland that then affects bodily functions or behavior.

The Pituitary gland is called the “Master Gland”. It is called this because its hormones influence other endocrine glands. Oxytocin is a hormone released by the pituitary gland. This hormone helps in regulating behaviors related to happiness such as sexual activity, social bonding, and helps to reduce stress. Oxytocin also plays a role in pregnancy and labor. The pituitary gland causes contractions in the uterus during labor and stimulates the ducts of the breasts to help eject milk.

The Adrenal Gland is located under the back of the rib cage on top of the kidneys. The adrenal gland helps do several things like arouse the body, regulates salt balance, adjust the body to stress and affects sexual functioning. Epinephrine is a hormone released by the adrenal gland. This hormone is associated with fear and is what helps arouse the body. Epinephrine is most commonly known as adrenaline.

References:

University of Phoenix. (2015). Introduction of Psychology. Retrieved from University of Phoenix, BEH/225...