Theory of functional systems


The theory of functional systems is a model that describes the structure of conduct, which was established by Russian and Soviet biologist and physiologist Pyotr Anokhin.

Overview

Functional systems were put forward by Anokhin as an alternative to the predominant concept of reflexes. Contrary to reflexes, the endpoints of functional systems are not actions themselves but adaptive results of these actions.
In contrast to reflexes, which are based on linear spread of information from receptors to executive organs through the central nervous system, functional systems are self-organizing non-linear systems composed of synchronized distributed elements.
"The principle of functional systems": association of private mechanisms of the body in a holistic system of adaptive behavioral act, the establishment of "integrative unity".
There are two types of functional systems:
  • System of the first type provide homeostasis due to internal resources of the body, inside its boundaries.
  • System of a second type supports homeostasis due to a change of behavior, interaction with the outside world and are the basis of different types of behavior.

Stages of the behavioral act

  • Afferent synthesis
  • :Any excitement in the central nervous system there is in interaction with other excitations: the brain analyzes these excitations. Synthesis determines the following factors:
  • *Motivation
  • *Pad afferentation
  • *Situational afferentation
  • *Memory
  • Decision-making
  • * The formation of action result acceptor
  • *Efferent synthesis
  • Action
  • Evaluation result of the action
  • :At this stage, comparison of the actual running of the ideal image created during the formation of acceptor result of the action based on a comparison of the action, or adjusted, or terminated.
  • Meeting the needs
Choice of targets and methods of achieving them are the key factors that regulate behavior. According to Anokhin, in the structure of the behavioral act afferent feedback compared with the acceptor of the result gives a positive or negative situational emotions affect the correction or termination of action. In addition, the behavior affect the memories of positive and negative emotions.
In general, behavioral act is characterized by meaningful and active role of the subject.

Literature