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Control Theory
Explanations > Theories > Control Theory Description | Research | Example | So what? | See also | References
DescriptionWe have a deep need for control that itself, paradoxically, controls much of our lives. The endless effort to control can lead us to be miserable as we fail in this impossible task of trying to control everything and everyone around us. The alternative is to see the world as a series of choices, which is why Glasser later renamed Control Theory as Choice Theory. Control theory was also taken up by Wiener in his study of cybernetics and other behaviorists. A principle of direct control theory is that of negative feedback, where outcomes are compared with intent (or 'goals') and consequently used to moderate actions until intent is optimally achieved. (The 'negative' in the feedback is the difference between the intent and the outcome). An important consequent aspect of control theory is self-regulation. People are seen as intelligent, goal-driven individuals who control their activities in order to achieve their objectives, goals and needs. So what?Using itGive people things to control, help them control the things in their path, or threaten their sense of control. DefendingDo not try to control everything -- instead see the world as a series of choices. See alsoControl need, Goal-Setting Theory
http://www.exrx.net/Psychology/ControlTheoryReview.html ReferencesGlasser (1984), Miller, Galanter and Pribram (1960), Wiener (1948)
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| Home | Top | Quick Links | Settings | |
Main sections: | Disciplines | Techniques | Principles | Explanations | Theories | |
Other sections: | Blog! | Quotes | Guest articles | Analysis | Books | Help | |
More pages: | Contact | Caveat | About | Students | Webmasters | Awards | Guestbook | Feedback | Sitemap | Changes | |
Settings: | Computer layout | Mobile layout | Small font | Medium font | Large font | Translate | |
| Home | Top | Menu | Quick Links | |
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