Sensory Neuron - GCSE Psychology Definition

Reviewed by: Lucy Vinson

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A sensory neuron is a type of nerve cell that plays a key role in our nervous system by helping us understand the world around us. It collects information from our senses, such as sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell, and sends these signals to the brain to be processed. For example, if you touch something hot, sensory neurons carry the message to your brain, so that you react quickly by pulling your hand away. In GCSE Psychology, understanding sensory neurons is important because they help explain how we perceive and respond to different stimuli in our environment.

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Lucy Vinson

Reviewer: Lucy Vinson

Expertise: Psychology Content Creator

Lucy has been a part of Save My Exams since 2024 and is responsible for all things Psychology & Social Science in her role as Subject Lead. Prior to this, Lucy taught for 5 years, including Computing (KS3), Geography (KS3 & GCSE) and Psychology A Level as a Subject Lead for 4 years. She loves teaching research methods and psychopathology. Outside of the classroom, she has provided pastoral support for hundreds of boarding students over a four year period as a boarding house tutor.

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