From the linear-mechanistic model to the dynamic predictive system of the psyche: a paradigm transformation in psychology and psychotherapy

Abstract

Background. The necessity of transitioning from a linear-mechanistic model of the psyche to understanding it as a dynamic predictive system is substantiated. The methodological and applied prospects of such a transformation for psychology and psychotherapy are demonstrated. Modern concepts in the philosophy of mind, psychology, and neuroscience that treat the psyche as a self-organizing system based on predictive coding and allostatic regulation are reviewed. The theoretical foundation comprises enactive perception (A. Noë) and the predictive processing theory (K. Friston). Emphasis is placed on the shift in concepts regarding consciousness (D. Chalmers), agency, and the principles of psychotherapeutic assistance in cases of "prediction errors" when planning life events. The study aims to systematize the principles of the dynamic predictive system paradigm of the psyche and illustrate its efficacy with empirical data. Methods.Two empirical studies were conducted to investigate early maladaptive personality schemas (according to J. Young) that determine "prediction errors" in future planning among graduating students. The following instruments were utilized: YSQ-S3 (adapted by S. Sardarzadeh), ACE (adapted by O. Vlasova), Brief COPE (adapted by T. Yablonska), PSS-10, IUS-12 (adapted by H. Hromova), Carol Ryff's Scales of Psychological Well-being (adapted by S. Karskanova), and author-developed questionnaires. The sample consisted of two groups of students (50 and 40 individuals). Results. It has been proven that early maladaptive schemas create preconditions for reduced stress resilience, intolerance of uncertainty, and a decreased level of psychological well-being and self-confidence as an agent of decision-making and future construction. The results obtained indicate that schemas and mindsets formed in early childhood are significant predictors of psychological well-being and the ability of student youth to constructively shape their future trajectories. Conclusions. Theoretical analysis and the results of the empirical study confirm the viability of the transition from a linear-mechanistic to a dynamic predictive paradigm in both psychology and psychotherapy.