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A systems view of the orienting reflex
The Pavlovian Journal of Biological Science
|April 1, 1986
Summary
The orienting reflex, initially defined by Pavlov, involves a specific response to stimuli. Modern research reveals it also causes widespread physiological changes, termed "organismic uncertainty," offering a broader systems perspective.
Area of Science:
- Psychophysiology
- Neuroscience
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Pavlov described the orienting reflex as a specific stimulus-response association.
- This reflex can inhibit or suppress weaker, conditioned reflexes.
- Contemporary research identifies a generalized physiological response to novel stimuli.
Purpose of the Study:
- To integrate Pavlov's concept of the orienting reflex with modern psychophysiological findings.
- To explore the phenomenon of "organismic uncertainty" as part of the orienting reflex.
- To propose a systems view of the orienting reflex.
Main Methods:
- Review of Pavlov's original observations on the orienting reflex.
- Analysis of contemporary psychophysiological research on responses to novel stimuli.
- Conceptual integration of findings into a systems framework.
Main Results:
- The orienting reflex is characterized by specific stimulus-response links.
- Novel stimuli elicit a generalized increase in physiological variability ("organismic uncertainty").
- This uncertainty temporarily affects multiple vital physiological functions.
Conclusions:
- A systems view complements Pavlov's understanding of the orienting reflex.
- The orienting reflex encompasses both specific and generalized physiological responses.
- "Organismic uncertainty" is a key component of the reaction to novelty.