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A not-so proximate account of cleansing behavior
Jonathan Sigger1, Thomas E Dickins1
1Department of Psychology, Middlesex University, LondonNW4 4BT, UKJ.Sigger@mdx.ac.uk; t.dickins@mdx.ac.uk; https://www.mdx.ac.uk/about-us/our-people/staff-directory/profile/sigger-jonathan; http://tomdickins.net/.
Perceptual control theory offers an embodied framework for understanding cleansing behavior. This commentary critiques Lee and Schwarz's command control approach as an unnecessary cognitive load for embodied models.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Science
- Psychology
- Embodied Cognition
Background:
- Lee and Schwarz (L&S) proposed an account of cleansing behavior.
- Their model utilizes a command control approach.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce Perceptual Control Theory (PCT) as a framework for embodied behavior.
- To critique the command control approach used by L&S in their model of cleansing behavior.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical commentary and conceptual analysis.
- Application of Perceptual Control Theory principles to existing models.
Main Results:
- Perceptual Control Theory provides a robust, embodied alternative to command control.
- The command control approach represents an unnecessary cognitive commitment within embodied models.
Conclusions:
- Perceptual Control Theory can more fully embody accounts of behavior like cleansing.
- Rethinking cognitive commitments is crucial for advancing embodied models of behavior.
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