What division of the nervous system consists of all nerves that are not part of the brain or spinal cord?

The peripheral nervous system consists of all the nerves and ganglia outside of the brain and spinal cord. It connects the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord, to the limbs and organs. This division of the nervous system is essential for relaying information between the central nervous system and the rest of the body, facilitating communication that allows for sensory input and motor output.

The peripheral nervous system itself can be further divided into the somatic nervous system, which controls voluntary movements and the autonomic nervous system, which regulates involuntary functions. Both of these subdivisions operate within the context of the broader peripheral nervous system, which encompasses all nerves that do not lie within the central nervous system.

Understanding this distinction is crucial in psychology, as it outlines how our body communicates internally and responds to external stimuli, playing a fundamental role in behavior and physiological responses.