What does the somatic nervous system primarily control?

The somatic nervous system is primarily responsible for the control of voluntary movements and the processing of sensory information. It facilitates communication between the central nervous system and the muscles, allowing individuals to perform conscious movements, such as walking or picking up objects. Additionally, it conveys sensory data from the body and external environment to the brain, enabling perception and reaction to stimuli.

This system operates through afferent (sensory) and efferent (motor) pathways, making it crucial for activities that require immediate response or deliberate action. In contrast, the other options pertain to different aspects of the nervous system or physiological functions that are not controlled by the somatic nervous system, such as involuntary bodily functions, emotional responses, and hormonal regulation, which are primarily managed by the autonomic nervous system and endocrine system.