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. Endocrine Glands Glands of the endocrine system that release hormones into the bloodstream Hormones Chemical substances released by the endocrine glands; they help regulate bodily activities The Endocrine System

Hormones Hormones interest psychologists for two reasons: First: At certain stages in our development hormones organize the nervous system and body tissue Second: Hormones activate behaviors

Thyroid Gland Endocrine gland located below the voice box; it produces the hormone thyroxin. What it does: Regulates the body’s rate of metabolism

Parathyroid Glands Parathyroids Four tiny glands embedded in the thyroid; they secrete parathormone What they do: Control and balance the levels of calcium and phosphate in the blood and tissue fluids

Pineal Gland A gland located roughly in the center of the brain that appears to regulate activity levels over the course of a day What it does: Appears to regulate activity by controlling the release of melatonin

The Pancreas Organ lying between the stomach and small intestine What it does: Secretes insulin and glucagon to regulate blood-sugar levels

Pituitary Gland Gland located on the underside of the brain; it produces the largest number of the body’s hormones It has two parts that function separately: -Posterior Pituitary -Anterior Pituitary

Posterior Pituitary Part of the pituitary that affects thirst, sexual behavior, and perhaps maternal behavior

Anterior Pituitary Part of the pituitary known as the “master gland” because it produces numerous hormones that trigger the action of other glands What it does: Regulates body growth and also affects motivation and emotions

Gonads The Gonads The reproductive glands- testes in males and ovaries in females. What they do: They play a number of important organizing roles in human development

Adrenal Glands Two endocrine glands located just above the kidneys. Each adrenal gland has two parts: - Adrenal cortex - Adrenal medulla

Adrenal Cortex Outer covering of the two adrenal glands; the adrenal cortex releases hormones important for dealing with stress

Adrenal medulla Adrenal Medulla Inner core of the adrenal glands that also releases hormones to deal with stress

Wrapping up -The endocrine system plays a key role in helping to coordinate and integrate complex psychological reactions. -The nervous system and the endocrine system work together in a constant chemical conversation