Shelley Roy provides a lively analogy to introduce the basic ideas
underpinning the scientific theory of living systems; Perceptual
Control Theory. Focusing on the difference between 'the rock view' of
life and 'the plant view of life, Ms. Roy explains how to date much
of the thinking on human behavior is based on two faulty theories;
stimulus response psychology and cognitive psychology. These theories
which Ms Roy refers to as 'the rock views' lead to thinking that with
the right strategy, the right program, the right language anyone can
learn to control someone else. Shelley also shares her belief that
"one size does not fit all" and that customization is
necessary to better meet the needs of individual clients.
Loop Video:
At the core of Perceptual Control Theory is an understanding that
behavior is the control of perception. Building on the
introduction Ms. Roy walks the audience through a step by step
overview of the negative feedback loop which serves as the corner
stone for understanding living systems theory. Shelley shares that
one of the key principles that directs her work with others is to
honor the individual and celebrating the collective diversity
organizations have to offer. Ms. Roy believes that basing her work
on a scientific theory that is being modeled and testing today
validates her message and adds strength and dimension to
everything she does.
Perception
Video:
In this final clip Ms. Roy shares the complexity of the system
that is created by building higher level perceptions from
combinations of lower level perceptions. Shelley takes the
audience through an abbreviated version of the behavioral
hierarchy, demonstrating that error is necessary for learning
and ending by helping her audience understands that to become
the person they really want to be they need to have a more
comprehensive awareness of self. Ms. Roy concludes that what
she finds most rewarding in her work is helping individuals and
organizations change more quickly and at deeper levels while
coming out the other side stronger.
