GlossariesGCSE GlossariesGCSE Psychology GlossarySomatic Nervous System

Somatic Nervous System - GCSE Psychology Definition

Reviewed by: Lucy Vinson

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The somatic nervous system is a division of the nervous system that helps us control our voluntary, deliberate movements, such as picking up a book or waving our hand. It connects our brain and spinal cord to our muscles. The somatic nervous system also lets us feel different sensations, such as touch, pain, or temperature, as it carries signals from our skin and senses back to the brain. This system plays a crucial role in how we interact with the world around us every day.

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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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