Perceptual Control Theory as an integrative framework and Method of Levels as a cognitive therapy: what are the pros and cons?

2008 ◽  
Vol 2 (3) ◽  
pp. 178-196 ◽  
Author(s):  
Warren Mansell
Keyword(s):  
Control Theory ◽  
Cognitive Therapy ◽  
Informed Choice ◽  
Evidence Base ◽  
Present Moment ◽  
Early Theory ◽  
Learn Theory ◽  
Perceptual Control Theory ◽  
Perceptual Control ◽  
Pros And Cons

AbstractThis article considers the pros and cons of using Method of Levels (MOL), a therapy based on Perceptual Control Theory (PCT). Five concerns about PCT are that it is an early theory, is not well known, originates from outside psychology, implies that established theories are inaccurate and has a mechanistic approach. Five positive features are that it explains how ‘control’ works, takes a phenomenological perspective, is grounded in biology, integrates many disciplines and has an evidence base. Five features of MOL can raise caution: it is not well known, emphasizes intrinsic change, requires the therapist to let go of control, concentrate intensively and use alternative evaluations of outcome. There are major advantages: it is a simple process to learn; theory-practice links are clear, it is ‘ultra cognitive therapy’ – focused on the present moment, client-centred and enables shifting in perspective, promotes service empowerment, and has an evidence base. This article will help therapists make an informed choice about using MOL.

Method of Levels: initial steps in assessing adherence and the development of a qualitative framework for mapping clients' control hierarchies

2009 ◽  
Vol 2 (3) ◽  
pp. 145-166 ◽  
Author(s):  
Timothy Bird ◽  
Warren Mansell ◽  
Sara Tai
Keyword(s):  
Control Theory ◽  
Cognitive Therapy ◽  
Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis ◽  
Rating Scale ◽  
Phenomenological Analysis ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Perceptual Control Theory ◽  
Perceptual Control ◽  
Item Scale

AbstractMethod of Levels (MOL) is a form of cognitive therapy based on Perceptual Control Theory (PCT). This paper presents the initial steps towards four methods of establishing the validity of MOL. First, the session was rated by two independent experts for its adherence to MOL using a newly developed 6-item scale based on the Cognitive Therapy Rating Scale. Second, each therapist utterance within a session of MOL was coded and categorized in terms of the therapist's goal to test for adherence to the two specified goals of MOL. Third, a macroanalysis of a MOL session utilizing interpretative phenomenological analysis hypothesized the control hierarchies involved in a client's presenting problem and their zones of conflict. Fourth, a microanalysis of a brief interchange between the therapist and client explored its adherence to PCT. These methods of establishing validity are introduced and explored for later use in larger scale studies. The limitations of the present study and suggestions for future research are discussed.

Can a control model approach assist case formulation in psychotherapy?

2009 ◽  
Vol 2 (3) ◽  
pp. 197-210 ◽  
Author(s):  
Christopher G. Spratt ◽  
Timothy A. Carey
Keyword(s):  
Control Theory ◽  
Cognitive Therapy ◽  
Control Model ◽  
Diagnosis And Treatment ◽  
Case Formulation ◽  
Therapy Control ◽  
Perceptual Control Theory ◽  
Perceptual Control ◽  
Naturalistic Setting ◽  
Model Approach

AbstractThis paper looks at issues regarding case formulation in psychotherapy. Case formulation is well recognized as being helpful in the conceptualizing of psychological problems and as a useful tool in the practice of cognitive therapy. Control, as opposed to behaviour, is increasingly being seen as that human process most relevant to psychopathology. We look at the diagnosis and treatment of a small number of people, treated in a naturalistic setting, who were selected without any specific criteria other than being people whose problems were treated using the Method of Levels, a form of cognitive therapy based on the principles of Perceptual Control Theory, and who completed both pre- and post-treatment questionnaires. We then consider how the problems these people presented with, and their treatment, might be formulated as a result of taking this approach.

PCT and MOL: a brief history of Perceptual Control Theory and the Method of Levels

2009 ◽  
Vol 2 (3) ◽  
pp. 118-122 ◽  
Author(s):  
William T. Powers
Keyword(s):  
Control Theory ◽  
The Past ◽  
Perceptual Control Theory ◽  
Perceptual Control ◽  
History Of

AbstractI have been asked to describe how Perceptual Control Theory (PCT) and Method of Levels (MOL) came into being, and as I approach the age of 82 that seems a prudent request. Some parts of the following should probably be taken more as a reconstruction than a verifiable record of the past, but I will strive for realism.

scholarly journals Adaptation, learning, Bildung: Discussion with edu- and biosemiotics

2018 ◽  
Vol 46 (4) ◽  
pp. 435-451 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eetu Pikkarainen
Keyword(s):  
Control Theory ◽  
Biological Species ◽  
Human Beings ◽  
Main Form ◽  
Perceptual Control Theory ◽  
Perceptual Control ◽  
Learning And Adaptation ◽  
Adaptation Evolution

Learning and adaptation are central problems to both edusemiotics, or semiotics of education, and biosemiotics. Bildung, as an especially human way or form of learning, and evolution as the main form of adaptation for many biologists after Darwin are often regarded as mutually exclusive concepts even though human beings are undeniably one biological species among others. In this article I will try to build a bridge between the biosemiotical, edusemiotical and Bildung-theoretical stances. Central to this discussion is biosemiotician Kalevi Kull and some of his recent publications where he considers adaptation, evolution and learning. The primary theoretical resource that I utilize here, in addition to the general Greimassian, edusemiotical and Bildung-theoretical starting points, is perceptual control theory (PCT) to which I compare the Uexküllian conception of functional circle.

Using Perceptual Control Theory and the Method of Levels to work with people who experience psychosis

2009 ◽  
Vol 2 (3) ◽  
pp. 227-242 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sara J. Tai
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Control Theory ◽  
Psychotic Disorders ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Specific Treatment ◽  
Health Problems ◽  
Therapeutic Application ◽  
Perceptual Control Theory ◽  
Perceptual Control ◽  
Potential Benefits

AbstractThis paper provides an overview of perceptual control theory (PCT) in relation to understanding severe and enduring mental health problems. The core principles of control and conflict are reviewed in relation to understanding the experiences associated with psychotic disorders. The therapeutic application of PCT known as the Method of Levels (MOL) is described and an overview of how this might be a useful approach to use with people experiencing psychosis is provided. The benefits and difficulties of using MOL to work with people experiencing psychosis are described including case illustrations of preliminary work based on the application of MOL in clinical practice. It is concluded that PCT is a useful framework for understanding severe and enduring mental health problems and there are potential benefits in using MOL as a therapeutic intervention. Further research examining the effectiveness and feasibility of MOL as a specific treatment for psychosis is recommended.

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