Which part of the autonomic nervous system prepares the body for stressful situations?

The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for preparing the body for stressful situations, a response often referred to as "fight or flight." When faced with a perceived threat, this system activates a series of physiological changes throughout the body. These changes include an increase in heart rate, dilated airways, and heightened alertness, among others. This prepares the body to either confront the stressor or flee from it, enhancing survival during emergencies.

In contrast, the parasympathetic nervous system promotes a state of rest and relaxation, counteracting the effects of the sympathetic response and facilitating recovery after stress. The somatic nervous system primarily controls voluntary movements and sensory information, while the central nervous system encompasses the brain and spinal cord, processing sensory data but not directly involved in the autonomic responses to stress. Therefore, the critical role of the sympathetic nervous system in managing stress-related responses makes it the correct answer in this context.