AP Psychology Practice Test

Hormones are best defined as chemical messengers that play a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes in the body. They are produced by glands in the endocrine system and released into the bloodstream, where they travel to target organs and tissues to elicit specific responses. These responses can range from regulating metabolism, growth, and mood, to influencing reproductive functions and stress responses.

The other options refer to different concepts within the biological and psychological frameworks. Neural fibers pertain to the structure of neurons and their connections in the nervous system, while brain areas refer to specific regions of the brain responsible for various functions. Memory enhancers might refer to substances that improve memory but do not describe hormones, which have a broader regulatory role in the body’s systems. Thus, the identification of hormones as chemical messengers highlights their fundamental role in maintaining homeostasis and facilitating communication within the body.