Principles of self-organization
Before a need arises, the elements of the body may be in a state of chaos — they are disunited and have no pronounced dominant. As soon as equilibrium is disrupted under the influence of external or internal stimuli, the mechanism of self-organization is triggered.
The ordering process goes through several steps:
- Ordering factor. The system-forming factor is always a biological or social need.
- Constellation. Disparate elements unite into a single network aimed at satisfying this need.
- Criterion of fixation. Such an integration is consolidated only if a useful adaptive result is achieved.
The result of this self-organization is the formation of a functional system. Within it, a crucial mechanism arises — proactive anticipation of the result that the body needs at the given moment.
Dynamics of behavioral act formation
The operation of the system to satisfy vital needs occurs in stages, transitioning the body from a state of rest to purposeful activity.
- Initial state. The body is in a state of relative equilibrium (homeostasis). The activity of the elements is not ordered by a specific goal.
- Emergence of need and search. A dominant motivation is formed. It triggers an orienting-exploratory reaction — the body begins to actively assess the environment to find a way to make up for the arisen internal deficit.
- Formation of action. Before the action is performed, an Action Result Acceptor (ARA) is created in the central nervous system. This is a neural model that proactively programs the properties of the future result. Based on the ARA, the efferent action program is launched.
- Evaluation and completion. The action leads to an adaptive result. Information about it enters the CNS via feedback (reverse afferentation), where reality is compared with the plan within the ARA apparatus. If the result matches the initial need, the activity ceases. If not, the system reorganizes for a new search.
Mechanisms of self-regulation
Stable metabolism is necessary for normal cell functioning. However, metabolism is constantly changing: the body consumes and releases substances, and generates heat. The stabilization of these processes is ensured by mechanisms of self-regulation.
Self-regulation is a form of interaction between elements in which the very deviation of a function from the optimal level becomes the main cause of its return to norm.
Historically, this principle is based on the works of Claude Bernard, who described the constancy of the internal environment as a condition for "free life," and Walter Cannon, who proposed the term homeostasis.
The functional system implements self-regulation according to the following scheme:
- When the result deviates from the norm, result receptors are excited.
- Feedback (reverse afferentation) arises, transmitting a signal to the center of the functional system.
- The center activates effector mechanisms (autonomic, behavioral, and hormonal) to return the parameter to the level ensuring optimal cellular metabolism.
Briefly: answers to topical questions
What components make up the stage of afferent synthesis in Anokhin's theory?
The stage of afferent synthesis includes:
- motivation;
- memory;
- situational afferentation;
- triggering afferentation.
Decision-making is the informational result of afferent synthesis processes and the nodal point of switching from synthesis to the action program.
What types of useful adaptive results are distinguished in normal physiology?
The following useful adaptive results are described in sources:
- Homeostatic-level results — associated with maintaining parameters optimal for metabolism or function execution. Examples: nutrient levels ensuring the normal course of metabolic processes; blood sex hormone levels optimal for reproductive functions.
- Behavioral-level results — as a rule, are located outside the body and require active behavioral activity and interaction with environmental factors; their goal is to satisfy the body's leading needs.
In the systemic quantum of behavior, the following are also distinguished:
- intermediate results;
- stage results;
- final result — satisfaction of the initial need.
You can remember the stages of functional system operation using the acronym PORA: Need (launch) — Orientation (search for a solution) — Result (the action itself) — Analysis (comparison in the ARA).
Class and exam questions
What is the acceptor of action results (AAR)?
This is the central forecasting apparatus, a neural model of the expected result. It is formed prior to the actual action and predicts the properties of the intended outcome.
What is the principle of self-regulation?
The essence is that the deviation of any function from the optimal level ensuring normal metabolism automatically triggers mechanisms that return this function to its initial state.
By means of what mechanisms does the system return the result to the norm?
The center of the functional system uses three main pathways: behavioral responses, autonomic regulation, and hormone release.
What else to study on this topic
- Orienting-exploratory reaction upon changing external conditions
- Formation of dominant motivation based on need
- Types of feedback (reverse afferentation) and their role in behavioral correction
- Differences between autonomic and hormonal effector mechanisms
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