A Nonlinear Dynamic Approach of the Notion of Interaction.

Interactionist theories can be closely connected to a nonlinear dynamic approach of psychological and social processes. The mathematical theory of dynamic systems (DST) offers a systematic conceptual and methodological framework for understanding interaction. From a DST perspective, interaction is conceived as an interdependent continuous evolution over time of two or more dynamic variables, which are paradoxically both separated as independent sources of variation and indistinguishable as a new emergent source of variation. This contrasts with the popular view of interaction as a sequence of action and reaction. The key notion of coupling, rarely used in interactionist work, is central to this dynamic systems view. Future studies should specify the link between the dynamic approach of interaction and action theories.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Although it is not so obvious reading many of the interactionist works, interactionist theories can be tightly linked with a nonlinear dynamic approach of the psychological and social processes. The mathematical theory of dynamic systems (DST) could offer a more systematic conceptual and methodological outlook over the notion of interaction. From a DST perspective, interaction may be conceived as an interdependent continuous evolution in time of two or more dynamic variables, which are paradoxically simultaneously separated (as independent sources of variation), and undistinguishable, being united in a new, emergent, source of variation. This conception differs from the popular conception of the interaction as a succession of action and reaction. The key notion that, from a dynamic systems perspective, is linked with interaction is that of coupling, which is rarely used in the interactionist works. Future studies should specify the link between the dynamic approach of interaction and action theories.