Reflective-Impulsive
Introduction
The Reflective-Impulsive Model is a psychological theory that seeks to explain the dual-process of decision making in humans. This model, proposed by Fritz Strack and Roland Deutsch in 2004, posits that human behavior is governed by two systems: a reflective system, which is slow, deliberate, and conscious, and an impulsive system, which is fast, automatic, and unconscious 1(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2440575/).
Reflective System
The reflective system is characterized by slow, deliberate, and conscious thought processes. It involves the use of logical reasoning and the consideration of potential consequences before making a decision. This system is often associated with the prefrontal cortex, a part of the brain that is responsible for higher cognitive functions such as planning, decision-making, and moderating social behavior 2(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2907136/).
Impulsive System
In contrast, the impulsive system is characterized by fast, automatic, and unconscious thought processes. It is driven by immediate sensory input and emotional responses, often leading to spontaneous and instinctive actions. This system is often associated with the amygdala, a part of the brain that plays a key role in emotional responses and decision-making 3(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3075496/).
Interplay between the Systems
The Reflective-Impulsive Model suggests that these two systems interact in complex ways to influence human behavior. In some situations, the reflective system may override the impulsive system, leading to more deliberate and thoughtful actions. In other situations, the impulsive system may dominate, leading to more spontaneous and instinctive actions. This interplay between the systems is thought to be influenced by various factors, including individual differences, situational context, and cognitive load 4(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2440575/).
Applications of the Model
The Reflective-Impulsive Model has been applied in various fields, including psychology, marketing, and health promotion. In psychology, the model has been used to understand various phenomena, such as impulse buying, addiction, and self-control. In marketing, the model has been used to develop strategies that target either the reflective or impulsive system to influence consumer behavior. In health promotion, the model has been used to design interventions that aim to promote healthy behaviors and discourage unhealthy ones 5(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2440575/).
Criticisms and Limitations
While the Reflective-Impulsive Model has been influential in our understanding of human behavior, it is not without its criticisms and limitations. Some researchers argue that the model oversimplifies the complexity of human decision-making by reducing it to a dual-process. Others argue that the model does not adequately account for the influence of social and cultural factors on behavior. Furthermore, the model's reliance on neuroanatomical correlates (i.e., the prefrontal cortex and the amygdala) has been criticized for being overly reductionistic 6(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2907136/).
See Also
References
1. Strack, F., & Deutsch, R. (2004). Reflective and impulsive determinants of social behavior. Personality and Social Psychology Review, 8(3), 220-247. 2. Miller, E. K., & Cohen, J. D. (2001). An integrative theory of prefrontal cortex function. Annual Review of Neuroscience, 24, 167-202. 3. Phelps, E. A. (2006). Emotion and cognition: insights from studies of the human amygdala. Annual Review of Psychology, 57, 27-53. 4. Hofmann, W., Friese, M., & Strack, F. (2009). Impulse and self-control from a dual-systems perspective. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 4(2), 162-176. 5. Wiers, R. W., Bartholow, B. D., van den Wildenberg, E., Thush, C., Engels, R. C., Sher, K. J., ... & Stacy, A. W. (2007). Automatic and controlled processes and the development of addictive behaviors in adolescents: A review and a model. Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior, 86(2), 263-283. 6. Satel, S., & Lilienfeld, S. O. (2013). Brainwashed: The seductive appeal of mindless neuroscience. Basic Books.