Question

how would the golgi tendon reflex be classified?

mark all correct answers

a. somatic
b. autonomic
c. monosynaptic
d. polysynaptic
e. ipsilateral
f. bilateral
g. contralateral

Explanation:

Identify effector type

Using the Somatic Reflexes knowledge point
The Golgi tendon reflex controls skeletal muscle tension, making it a somatic reflex rather than autonomic.

Determine synaptic complexity

The sensory neuron from the Golgi tendon organ synapses with an inhibitory interneuron in the spinal cord, which then synapses with the alpha motor neuron. Because it involves an interneuron, it is a polysynaptic reflex.

Determine reflex symmetry

Using the Ipsilateral Reflexes knowledge point
The sensory input enters one side of the spinal cord and the motor output exits the same side to inhibit the contracting muscle, classifying it as an ipsilateral reflex.

Answer:

• a. Somatic (Correct answer)
• b. Autonomic
• c. Monosynaptic
• d. Polysynaptic (Correct answer)
• e. Ipsilateral (Correct answer)
• f. Bilateral
• g. Contralateral