Utah Special Function Officer (SFO) Practice Exam

Which physiological response is NOT associated with the Sympathetic Nervous System?

1. Fight

2. Flight

3. Rest

4. Freeze

The correct answer is: Rest

The physiological response that is NOT associated with the Sympathetic Nervous System is "Rest." The Sympathetic Nervous System is a branch of the autonomic nervous system that is primarily responsible for the body's 'fight or flight' response. When activated, it prepares the body to respond to perceived threats by increasing heart rate, dilating pupils, redirecting blood flow toward muscles, and releasing stress hormones like adrenaline. These actions are geared toward heightened awareness and physical readiness in emergency situations. In contrast, the 'Rest' response is primarily associated with the Parasympathetic Nervous System, which facilitates the body's restorative processes after a stressful event, promoting relaxation, digestion, and energy conservation. This system operates in opposition to the Sympathetic Nervous System, helping the body to return to a state of calm. Thus, the correct answer highlights a crucial distinction between the two systems’ functions and their related physiological responses.