Hypothalamus
The Quick Facts
Location: Above the pituitary gland and below the thalamus
Function: Responsible for behaviors such as hunger and thirst, as well as the maintenance of body temperature
Function: Responsible for behaviors such as hunger and thirst, as well as the maintenance of body temperature
The hypothalamus is mainly responsibly for motivational behavior. It is the reason we know when we are hungry or thirsty. The hypothalamus also helps our body maintain a constant temperature. This part of the brain also controls the pituitary gland, which is the master gland that controls all the other endocrine glands in the body. Thus, the hypothalamus plays a key role in connecting the endocrine system with the nervous system.