Peripheral nervous system works to reflexively control the body

In addition to the central nervous system components (brain and spinal cord), the nervous system has a peripheral component, made up of the cranial nerves, spinal nerves, and autonomic nervous system. The cranial nerves (12 pairs) (figure 10.6) and the autonomic nervous system (figure 10.7) have their origins in the cranium and are therefore closely associated with the central nervous system. The spinal nerves (cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, coccygeal) are discussed in chapter 1 and other chapters relevant to the anatomical areas they innervate.