Tag: innate and learned behaviour

The reflex action is defined as the sudden and involuntary movements that are controlled directly by the spinal cord. These actions do not require memory generation most of the time, like blinking of the eyes when something comes close to them. These are called the unconditional reflexes. Some reflex actions may involve learning and these are call the conditional reflexes. For example release of saliva at the sight of the food. Obeying the orders is the voluntary set of actions performed under the command of the somatic nervous system. It involves memory generation so as to remember the tasks and voices.

A reflex action is defined as a spontaneous, involuntary, automated, nerve-mediated activity produced at the unconscious level  by stimulating specific receptors. In other words, a reflex action is a sensory impulse, automatically converted into a motor effect with the involvement of the central nervous system. These actions are sudden and automatic and take place even before one can feel the stimulus through the brain. The quick pulling of the hand on touching a hot object is an automated response to stimuli and is controlled and regulated by the spinal cord along with the sensory and motor neurons which connect the receptor and effector organs. Thus, the correct answer is option C.

Reflex actions are involuntary actions that are either performed when learnt or innately performed. A complex reflex action is made up of a polysynaptic pathway, wherein, more than one synaptic junctions are involved. Swallowing of food bolus is a reflex activity that involves a polysynaptic pathway and is under reflexive or involuntary control. This stage of the swallow begins after food which has been masticated has been gathered together in the mouth and formed into a bolus which is passed from the posterior tongue. It is controlled by medulla oblongata.