All the organs in the endocrine system are glands. They are unique from other glands, because they release chemicals known as hormones into general circulation. The organs of the endocrine system are located in widely separated parts of the body: in the cranial cavity, in the neck, in the thoracic cavity, in the abdominal cavity, in the pelvic cavity, and outside the body cavities. The hormones they release are important to body functions. They regulate basic drives and emotions, such as sexual urges, violence, anger, fear, joy, and sorrow. They also promote growth and sexual identity, control body temperature, assist in the repair of broken tissue, and help to generate energy.
