Reflex chain theory

In the period around 1900, reflex chains were often seen as the cause of complicated movement sequences. The proponents of the reflex chain theory (they themselves called their concept of the interpretation of behavior reflexology ) took the view that a certain stimulus triggers an excitation of certain nerve cells, which is guided over a fixed path ( reflex arc ) and ultimately triggers a certain movement. This movement was interpreted as a stimulus for triggering the next reflex .

Synonym: chain reflexes

The best-known proponent of the reflex chain theory was Vladimir Bechterew , who enjoyed great esteem in specialist circles in the 1920s for his studies on male sexual reflexes. He distinguished between primary (inherited) and higher (associated) reflexes. These higher reflexes are now referred to as conditioned reflexes , based on the language used by Ivan Petrovich Pavlov . The British neurophysiologist Charles Scott Sherrington was also a staunch advocate of “reflexology”.

The representatives of classical comparative behavioral research turned against the reflex chain theory . Their instinct theory brought (as a supplement to the relatively rigid, always seeming - reflex-like - sequences of movements) additionally u. a. spontaneous internal changes of state ( readiness to act ) come into play. Erich von Holst in particular was a pioneer in Germany .

literature

• Vladimir Bechterew : The collective reflexology. Hall 1928
• Volker Schurig: The refutation of the reflex chain theory of behavior (1935) and its consequences for the development of biological science. In: Biological Zentralblatt. Volume 113, No. 2, 1994, p. 275
• Volker Schurig: Reflex theory versus activity concept. Pavlov's blockade of a paradigm shift in Soviet psychology. In: Norbert Kruse and Manfred Ramme (eds.): Hamburg lecture series on critical psychology. Science criticism, categories, areas of application. Results Verlag, Hamburg 1988, pp. 82–114.