Concepts Of Systems Theory Research Articles

Applying a systemic approach for better outcomes

AbstractThis paper demonstrates the added value of utilizing a systemic approach to financial planning, which includes understanding how individuals make financial decisions and how these decisions are influenced by their experiences and the broader systems in which they exist. Systems theory is too broad of a topic to cover in one paper. The scope of this paper is to describe the key systems' concepts of interconnectedness, the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, homeostasis, and differentiation of self that have direct applications to financial planning. A case study illustrates how these concepts and tools, such as the genogram and shifting the conversation from content to process, can be utilized in financial planning. Through therapeutic communication (e.g., listening actively and recognizing the hidden cues in a client's communication), financial planners can uncover and address systemic issues impacting the financial planning process. Financial planners will learn key concepts of systems theory, gain tools for how to incorporate systems' concepts into practice, and be prepared to take an active role in the next evolution of financial planning.

Integral system safety for machine learning in the public sector: An empirical account

This paper introduces systems theory and system safety concepts to ongoing academic debates about the safety of Machine Learning (ML) systems in the public sector. In particular, we analyze the risk factors of ML systems and their respective institutional context, which impact the ability to control such systems. We use interview data to abductively show what risk factors of such systems are present in public professionals' perceptions and what factors are expected based on systems theory but are missing. Based on the hypothesis that ML systems are best addressed with a systems theory lens, we argue that the missing factors deserve greater attention in ongoing efforts to address ML systems safety. These factors include the explication of safety goals and constraints, the inclusion of systemic factors in system design, the development of safety control structures, and the tendency of ML systems to migrate towards higher risk. Our observations support the hypothesis that ML systems can be best regarded through a systems theory lens. Therefore, we conclude that system safety concepts can be useful aids for policymakers who aim to improve ML system safety.

Intimate partner violence and Bowen family systems theory: promoting safety and expanding capacity of families

AbstractFamily violence is becoming increasingly visible in Australia, with many state and federal governments taking on more responsibility to address family violence and its impacts on those affected. Current efforts are focused on practice frameworks, identifying and responding to risk factors, and social justice frameworks including legislating against family violence in a range of jurisdictions and addressing more broadly the structural and cultural forces that perpetuate violence and further oppress those victimised. Family violence is not unique to Australia, with prevalence rates internationally suggesting family violence occurs irrespective of country, race, age, culture, effectiveness of social policies or socioeconomic status. This paper explores relevant foundational concepts of Bowen family systems theory (BFST) as it relates to family violence and explores opportunities to evolve practice in this area. BFST offers a unique contribution towards addressing family violence, particularly in relation to the public health challenge of addressing family polyvictimisation. The paper also explores how BFST conceptualises family violence and the role of the professional in working with the family as a single emotional unit. The unique focus of BFST on observing and defining self within the emotional family unit through observation of the underlying multigenerational emotional patterns of functioning provides unique opportunities to evolve and develop both the capacity of clinicians and responses to families who are navigating the serious and challenging impacts of family violence.

Reducing risk: navigating emotional triangles in clinical work with youth suicidality and self‐harm

AbstractIn clinical work with families in which a young person is at real and significant risk of self‐harm or even death by suicide, predictable emotional triangles both within the family and within the treating system intensify. As understandable fear and worry in parents and clinicians rises in response to potential risk, these emotionally driven relational processes become even more rigid. This typically results in a reduction in cognitive and behavioural flexibility, which can potentially and unwittingly increase the risk of self‐harm by suicide. This article outlines some basic principles pertaining to the notion of emotional triangles, a central concept in Bowen family systems theory; its relevance for clinicians working with suicidal youth and their families; and its application to the context of a community child and youth mental health service. Practical application of theory to clinical work is demonstrated through clinical vignettes that describe the work of two clinicians and their clinical supervisor. The authors reflect on their understanding of the development of emotional triangles in the vignettes presented alongside their efforts to navigate these triangles through the regulation of their own anxiety and more objective thinking.

Men of Letters: Perspectives on Multisensory Environments in the Hall-McLuhan Correspondence, 1961–1977

Abstract This paper introduces critical elements in the substantial, albeit mostly unpublished, correspondence between cultural anthropologist Edward T. Hall and media theorist Marshall McLuhan related to artistic practice with emerging media technologies in the 1960s. It contextualizes their exchange within the broader theoretical discourses and artistic practices surrounding systems theory and media technology and highlights intersections between Hall and McLuhan’s theoretical frameworks related to concepts of indeterminism, systems theory, and cybernetics in technology-based, kinesthetic, multisensory mediated environments in the 1960s. It particularly focuses on overlapping conceptual approaches toward the interrelation between the individual, the socio-cultural environment, and the emerging media-technological ecosystem.

(r, Q) stock replenishment in multi-mode distribution systems with uncertain delivery channels and adaptive channel allocation

To mitigate the impact of uncertainty in goods distribution systems, multiple channels and transportation modes may be used. In this paper, a discrete-time model of supplier-depot interaction involving multiple channels of goods relocation is constructed using the concepts of dynamic systems theory. The considered class of systems faces two types of uncertainty: a priori unknown variations of market demand and unpredictable changes of lead-time delay, different for each channel. The variation pattern is arbitrary. As a control mechanism, the nonlinear (r, Q) replenishment policy (provide Q units of goods when the stock falls below r) is considered. As opposed to the previous studies, the policy is demonstrated robust to both sources of uncertainty acting simultaneously using a formal mathematical argument. Moreover, it is shown how to select the policy parameters to obtain full demand realization, thus eliminating backorders, irrespective of the pattern of delay and demand fluctuations. It is also discussed how to assign the depot capacity so that emergency storage will not be required even though deliveries from a few periods arrive concurrently, or out of order. In addition, a new channel allocation strategy, dynamically adapting itself to the channel temporal characteristics, is developed. As evidenced in the tests, the proposed adaptive strategy, by reducing the waiting time for the lot reassembly at the depot, allows for holding cost reduction by several percent with respect to a static strategy.

A mathematical introduction to complex dynamical systems

This work proposes an investigation of the theory of dynamic systems, focusing on the analysis of entropy in its classical and topological manifestations. Initially, the fundamental concepts of dynamical systems theory are presented, with an emphasis on topological dynamical systems (TDS). Next, definitions of discrete topological entropy and its relationship to dynamical systems are discussed, followed by the introduction of topological entropy pressure as a weighted form of topological entropy. Subsequently, some applications of topological entropy in dynamic systems are examined, highlighting its role in the analysis of chaotic systems and in ergodic theory. Furthermore, we present a new theory, called Topological Ergodic Entropy Theory (TEET), which offers an innovative approach to the analysis of ergodic dynamical systems. Finally, the Ergodic Theory of Turbulent Flow (ETTF) is introduced, exploring the relationship between topological entropy and the ergodic properties of dynamic systems governed by the Navier-Stokes equations. The results presented contribute to a deeper understanding of the complexity of dynamical systems and their applications in various areas of mathematics and physics. The investigation of topological entropy and its applications in dynamical systems offers new insights into the chaotic and stochastic behavior of these systems, while the introduction of new theories, such as ETTF, provides a new perspective for the analysis and modeling of turbulent phenomena.

Immersion in Complex Dynamical Systems with Ergodicity

This work delves into the theory of dynamic systems, focusing on the analysis of entropy in both classical and topological contexts. Beginning with an exposition of fundamental concepts in dynamical systems theory, particular attention is given to topological dynamical systems (TDS). The discussion progresses to explore discrete topological entropy and its significance within dynamical systems, culminating in the introduction of topological entropy pressure as a nuanced form of this concept. The study then investigates various applications of topological entropy within dynamic systems, emphasizing its utility in understanding chaotic systems and its role in ergodic theory. A novel theory, termed Topological Ergodic Entropy Theory (TEET), is presented, offering a fresh perspective on the analysis of ergodic dynamical systems. Furthermore, the work introduces the Ergodic Theory of Turbulent Flow (ETTF), which probes the interplay between topological entropy and the ergodic properties of dynamic systems governed by the Navier-Stokes equations. Through these explorations, the findings contribute significantly to the comprehension of the intricate nature of dynamical systems and their diverse applications across mathematics and physics. By scrutinizing topological entropy and its implications in dynamical systems, this research offers novel insights into the chaotic and stochastic behaviors exhibited by these systems. Additionally, the introduction of pioneering theories like ETTF opens up new avenues for understanding and modeling turbulent phenomena, thereby enriching our understanding of complex dynamical processes.

Development of Vector Systems Applied Theory for Robotic Technology as an Alternative for Quantum One

The technology is based on the idea of simultaneously processing information on many categories of attributes in the minimized basis of a t-dimensional coordinate system, namely the concept of vector systems theory. The underlying mathematical principle is related to the optimal placement of structural elements in spatially or temporally distributed systems, where the basis is a subset of the set of the total number of coordinate sets of this system, which generates it by the combinational addition of the latter, and the set of the processed vector sets mutually uniquely corresponds to the set of their combinational sums, as well as to the set of binary code combinations. In other words, the mathematical models of the systems with elements distributed in space are studied in such a way that the set of all spatial distances, as well as all their possible combinational sums, mutually uniquely correspond to a set of binary code in the minimized basis of the coordinate system that wraps the surface of a manifold of corresponding dimensions and dimensionality with a common reference point in this system. All algebraic operations are performed by taking into account the numerical values of the modules that correspond to the dimensions, and their quantity, which is determined by the number of dimensions of the coordinate system. The theory includes the development of methods for improving the quality indicators of robotic engineering devices and systems in terms of such indexes as reliability, accuracy, resolution, and other significant characteristics of systems (for example, for constructing specified phase trajectories when controlling dynamic objects in spatial coordinates according to several variable parameters at the same time). The processing of multidimensional data sets on the minimized basis of the t-dimensional coordinate system opens up prospects for development of the vector systems applied theory for robotic technology as an alternative to quantum ones.

ПОДХОДЫ К ОЦЕНКЕ ВЗАИМОДЕЙСТВИЯ УЧАСТНИКОВ РЕГИОНАЛЬНОЙ ИННОВАЦИОННОЙ СИСТЕМЫ

The network interaction of the subjects participating in the regional innovation is associated with organizational problems in connection with the formation of a complex system of links between the subjects of the innovation system. The article provides approaches to assessing the interaction of subjects, highlights the key element of the assessment. It is proposed to evaluate the interaction of RIS participants comprehensively, taking into account the main properties of network-centric interaction of subjects of the regional innovation system, which is influenced by the environment of the region. The proposed set of approaches makes it possible to reasonably develop methodological tools for implementing organizational measures of interaction moderation based on the innovation policy of the subject of the Russian Federation. It is proposed to use the integrated approaches of the concept of stakeholders, systems theory, organization theory, and communication theory.

Heteroclinic networks for brain dynamics.

Heteroclinic networks are a mathematical concept in dynamic systems theory that is suited to describe metastable states and switching events in brain dynamics. The framework is sensitive to external input and, at the same time, reproducible and robust against perturbations. Solutions of the corresponding differential equations are spatiotemporal patterns that are supposed to encode information both in space and time coordinates. We focus on the concept of winnerless competition as realized in generalized Lotka-Volterra equations and report on results for binding and chunking dynamics, synchronization on spatial grids, and entrainment to heteroclinic motion. We summarize proposals of how to design heteroclinic networks as desired in view of reproducing experimental observations from neuronal networks and discuss the subtle role of noise. The review is on a phenomenological level with possible applications to brain dynamics, while we refer to the literature for a rigorous mathematical treatment. We conclude with promising perspectives for future research.

Complexity Theory and Child Protection and Welfare: A Tool of Hindsight and/or a Tool to Assist Improved Decision Making in Child Protection and Welfare Work

Abstract Child abuse and neglect is a ‘wicked problem’ (Devaney, J. and Spratt, T. (2009) ‘Child abuse as a complex and wicked problem: Reflecting on policy developments in the United Kingdom in working with children and families with multiple problems’, Children and Youth Services Review, 31(6), pp. 635–41.). Child Protection and Welfare (CPW) systems are open systems in which a wide variety of practitioners and families themselves contribute to outcomes. Small interacting changes in one part of a CPW system can lead to unpredictable and systemic effects so linear, technocratic solutions are not sufficient in addressing this complexity. Whilst CPW systems may aim to make clear roles and responsibilities, steered by legislation and regulatory guidance, complex systems do not behave as system designers expect. Recent literature has demonstrated a turn to complexity theory and systems theory concepts for understanding and working in the world of child protection. This article suggests a practice framework based on complexity theory concepts of self-organisation/emergence/adaptation, path-dependency and bifurcation. The utility of the framework is tested by its application to a fictionalised case study built on a thematic analysis of five National Review Panel published case reviews in the Irish child protection context (2019–2020). We argue that complexity theory may be a useful tool for both post hoc analytics as well as providing a proactive tool for application to practice to assist decision making in CPW systems, services and organisations.

Multigenerational transmission of differentiation of self - Towarda more in-depth understanding of Bowen's theory concept.

The multigenerational transmission of differentiation of self is one of the basic concepts of Bowen's Family Systems Theory. It describes how the ability to build healthy and intimate relationships with others can be passed down through generations within the family system. Previous research devoted to the concept has yielded mixed results. However, significant discrepancies can be observed between methodological approaches and the resulting understanding of the similarity in self-differentiation observed between parents and children. The present study examines these inconsistencies and explores the process of transmission on a multifaceted basis. Based on a series of confirmatory factor analyses, our findings lend support to Bowen's theory hypothesis and demonstrate that both parental sex and that of the child play a crucial role in transmission. The article highlights the importance of addressing family issues in promoting satisfying personal and social functioning among young people.

Transdisciplinary embodied education in elementary school: a real integrative approach for the science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics teaching

IntroductionConnecting academic disciplines and integrating knowledge is gaining popularity in elementary school. The relevant question is, how the targeted integration could be achieved? This research aimed to (a) evaluate the potential of teaching and learning Dynamic Systems Theory (DST) and Statistical Physics (ST) general concepts through embodied experiences in elementary school and, based on it (b) enable a far transfer analogical reasoning within and between different academic subjects.MethodsForty-eight elementary school students, aged 10.2 ± 0.82 y.o., followed an 8-week, 2-h/week intervention. The learning protocol contained a concreteness fading sequence of phases and consisted of four steps: (a) embodied experience, (b) reflective observation, (c) abstract conceptualization of DST/ST concepts, and (d) transfer of the DST/SP concepts to physical, sociological, biological and ecological phenomena. A validated questionnaire and an interview evaluated students’ knowledge and analogical reasoning.ResultsThe Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test showed a general positive effect of the intervention on the understanding of DSP/SP concepts and on the far transfer competencies of students (Z = −5.98; p < 0.0001). There was no association between the previous and newly acquired competencies (Spearman’s ρ = 0.112; p = 0.441).DiscusionThe qualitative results showed that, in general, the suggested embodied learning protocol supports the acquisition of DST/SP general concepts and the far transfer competencies. However, students of this age are possibly highly sensitive to the balance of the focus between the embodied phases and the conceptualization/transfer phases of the learning protocol. The study points to the potential of learning the general DST/SP for elementary school students’ integrative and far transfer competencies. The DST/SP concept-based transdisciplinary embodied education may offer a truly integrative approach to STEAM teaching.

Determining the strategic position of car-sharing services in Poland based on the stakeholder analysis method

This article presents the use of the stakeholder analysis method to characterize the strategic position of car-sharing services in Poland. The theoretical part presents a detailed theory of stakeholders, as well as detailed methods and the course of the interest group analysis procedure. It covers the fundamentals of stakeholder theory which refers to the concept of strategic planning, system theory, organization theory, social responsibility and strategic management. The characteristics of stakeholder analysis are presented together with mostly used methodology. The focus is put on most common analysis tools including the matrix of M. Johanson and K. Scholes based on the earlier Mendelow matrix and the map of stakeholders. The legitimacy and benefits of using the discussed method to determine the strategic position of modern and developing services have been presented. The research part presents an example of the use of the stakeholder analysis method in the Polish sector of car sharing services. The car-sharing services company stakeholder analysis of 23 entities provided knowledge on building relationships with employees and their involvement in the company's processes. The analysis made it possible to improve the strategic position of the company and determination of its position in negotiations with other organizations.

The Intelligentization of Second Language Acquisition Assisted Cognitive Linguistics Based on Internet Dynamic Information Network

This paper combs the basic concepts of dynamic system theory in detail, including the overall connectivity, nonlinearity, self-organization and attractive state of the system, and the sensitivity and difference of the initial state. And from the neurophysiological level, the hot issues of second language acquisition are discussed briefly, so as to provide a new idea for the research of second language acquisition. It is proposed that cognitive linguistics can provide coherent and appropriate theoretical guidance and method reference for second language acquisition. The deepening of second language acquisition research can enrich and test the theoretical assumptions of cognitive linguistics, and promote the continuous maturity and improvement of the theoretical system. Through the statistical analysis of the pre-test and post-test of the CET4 simulated test scores of the two groups of students, it is found that this training mode is helpful to improve the students' English ability.

Using acoustic signals for demonstrating key signal processing and communication systems concepts

In this talk, I will highlight the importance of reinforcing mathematical concepts in signal processing and communication systems theory with Matlab-based data analysis. In particular, I will provide examples and demos of homework and project problems I assigned in my linear systems and communication systems courses, and discuss how it helped the students learn in an agile hybrid virtual setting during the pandemic, and whether repeating the same (or similar) problems in an in-person or hybrid setting made a difference. I will also discuss the importance of playing with real-world acoustic signals, and lessons learned, including changes I made in the problem assignments based on student feedback, student performance, and classroom discussions.

A Review of Bowen’s Family System Theory from the Perspective of Christian Counseling

본 연구는 기독교 상담에서 Bowen 가족상담의 유용한 이론과 치료기법을 활용하기 위해 기독교 상담 관점으로의 통합을 시도하는데 목적이 있다. 본 연구에서는 기독교 상담과 Bowen 가족체계이론의 이론적 배경의 차이를 기독교 초자연주의와 자연주의로 살펴봄으로써 Bowen 이론의 이론적 배경의 한계를 드러냈다. 기독교 초자연주의 관점에서 볼 때, Bowen 가족체계이론의 자연주의는 자연법칙에 따라 세계가 자정적으로 서로 맞물려 움직이고 자체적으로 설명될 수 있다고 주장하나 인간의 ‘추론 행위’, ‘도덕적 판단 행위’, ‘삶의 의미를 묻는 실존적 질문’에 대해서는 인과적이고 논리적으로 설명할 수 없는 한계를 보였다. 또한 Bowen의 이론의 주요 개념을 기독교 상담에 활용하기 위해 재해석 및 새로운 통합을 시도하였다. 기독교 상담 관점에서 볼 때, Bowen 이론의 핵심 개념인 정서적-관계체계와 지적체계는 결국 인간 자신의 생존과 건강이라는 자기-중심성에 목적이 있음을 드러냈다. Bowen 이론이 간과한 영적 존재로서 인간이 하나님과 가족(이웃)과의 관계에서 온전한 개별성과 연합성을 이루는 영적-관계체계로 확장시키는 변형을 시도하였다. 이에 대해 Bowen의 가계도와 삼각관계를 기독교 상담으로 통합하여 영적 가계도와 영적-관계체계로 확장한 삼각관계를 설명하였다. 본 연구의 시사점은 기독교 상담과 Bowen의 가족체계이론의 근본적인 이론적 배경의 차이점과 함께 Bowen의 이론에 대한 실제적인 비판과 기독교 상담으로의 적용 가능성까지 살펴본 점이다.This study aims to utilize Bowen's Family Theory by integrating with the perspective of Christian counseling. In this study, the difference between Christian counseling and Bowen's theory was examined as Christian super-naturalism and naturalism. The basis of naturalism theory explains that the universe operates itself according to the law of nature but it is not able to logically explain human's ability to reason, ethically judge, and answer existential questions regarding the meaning of life. Furthermore, this study aims to reinterpret and integrate the key concepts of Bowen's family system theory. There is limitation in applying Bowen's main concepts, emotional-relational system and intellectual system, into Christian counseling because both systems eventually aim to achieve one's own survival and health. Therefore, the present study suggests to broaden the system into a spiritual-relational system by examining one’s spiritual genogram and using the triangulation based on spiritual-relational system.

Differences and Similarities: Variability and Fractality in CDST

Variability and fractality, two key concepts in Complex Dynamic Systems Theory (CDST)—the former concerning changes and variations, and the latter concerning recursiveness and self-similarities—may seem contradictory at first glance. This forum piece attempts to elucidate how the two seemingly contradictory properties can be reconciled in CDST to examine second language (L2) development. To that end, this piece includes a definition and short epistemological history of each concept, accompanied by a review of some relevant studies. It concludes with two metaphors to illustrate the relationship between variability and fractality, and how the two seemingly irreconcilable ideas can generate a clearer and more panoramic view of L2 development.

Tradisi Larangan Nikah Ngalor Ngulon di Daerah Purwoharjo Banyuwangi Perspektif Teori Sistem Jasser Auda

The purpose of this research is to find out the background factors and description of the tradition of prohibiting Ngalor Ngulon marriage in Purwoharjo Village from the Perspective of Jassir Auda's System Theory. This research method uses qualitative field research with a conceptual approach using Jassir Auda's systems theory concept. The research data was generated through direct interviews with the people of Purwoharjo Village, Purwoharjo District, Banyuwangi Regency as the research location. The conclusion of this study is that the Ngalor Ngulon Marriage Prohibition tradition is prohibited in Purwoharjo Village due to several factors, namely habit or customs, lack of religious knowledge, belief, and social structure. Based on Jasser Auda's view, the purpose of Islamic law must be universal so that Islamic law can be accepted anytime, anywhere, and in all circumstances, with the aim of the common good rather than individuals. A system for dealing with problems must be in accordance with the goals of Islam itself. Referring to the Ngalor Ngulon Marriage Prohibition tradition, it can be preserved by removing fasid or harmful elements in the custom. This is because this tradition is a custom or custom of Purwoharjo Village which cannot be simply erased. This tradition also does not necessarily prohibit marriage, but only in certain directions, namely Ngalor Ngulon.