The S-O-R-Model

Abstract

The realistic S-O-R-model is presented. This model simply pictures that stimulation and human behavior (reaction, action) are linked by an organismic component. The structures and processes that constitute this component are biological (sense organs, nervous system, muscular system) and psychological. Psychological analyses are guided by scientific concepts such as learning, perception, emotion, motivation and thinking. A more general concept is mental activity that can be subdivided into mental states (emotions, imagery, thoughts) and mental processes (judgment, thinking, appealing to oneself, asking oneself) as a function of stimulation, motivation, experience, and knowledge. Perception and mental activity that are based on the activity of neural systems are core components of self-regulation in the course of interactions with objects, machines, animals, or persons. Self-regulation is the coordination of actual states (ongoing stimulation, mental states) with desired or necessary states. The desired or necessary state is the dominant motive (basic value, need, commandment, duty, or interest).