Systems Theory

Systems Theory

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Systems Theory

A systems theory approach assumes that human behavior patterns and experiences arise from complex interactions within the human body. The systems approach notes that groups and individuals are in constant pursuit of homeostasis. In addition, this school of thought focuses on cognitive, motivational, effective and group behavioral patterns which influence experiences. The traditional mechanistic perspective in understanding behavior of human beings was as a result focusing on extreme behaviorist approaches (Bossel, Klaczko-Ryndziun & Müller, 1976). Neo-behaviorism and behaviorism were relatively revolutionary at the time. It was initially considered that complex human behaviors were as a result of the presence of measurable physical events which aided in the demystification of human behavior or psychology.

The pleasure principle enabled behaviorist to focus on quantification and analysis of behavior of animals such as human beings. Systems theory in the field of psychology emerged as a component adapted from general systems theory. The mechanistic nature of traditional psychological approaches such as behaviorism was ineffective in the study of human behavior and more so recognizing teleology (Smith, 2001). Systems theory has been relatively effective in the study of human perceptions which has illustrated the changing nature that is inherent of human cognitive function. In addition, the systems theory approach has been effective in enabling professionals to understand the interaction between the environment and the human body and mind. The interaction the environment and human cognitive function plays a critical role in influencing behavior and more so experiences. Furthermore, the systems theory approach has been critical towards providing new perspectives over the interaction between family, communities and surroundings and the role such components have on human behavior and experiences (Smith, 2001).

References

Bossel, H., Klaczko-Ryndziun, S., & Müller, N. (1976). Systems theory in the social sciences: Stochastic and control systems, pattern recognition, fuzzy analysis, simulation, behavioral models. Basel: Birkhäuser.

Smith, N. W. (2001). Current systems in psychology: History, theory, research, and applications. Australia: Wadsworth/Thomson Learning.