Columbus State Psychology Exam 1 Practice Test 2026 – Complete Study Resource

The brain and spinal cord form the central nervous system, which acts as the body's control center and processing hub. It contains the vast majority of nerve cells—over 99%—and is where sensory information is interpreted and decisions are made. The peripheral nervous system includes all the nerves outside the CNS and connects it to the rest of the body. Within the peripheral system, the somatic nervous system handles voluntary movement and conscious sensation, while the autonomic nervous system regulates involuntary functions like heartbeat and digestion. Because the question is asking for the term that describes the brain and spinal cord, the central nervous system is the correct answer.