EURO 2024 Copenhagen
Abstract Submission

EURO-Online login

1803. Integrating Socio-Emotional and Cognitive Perspectives in Causal Loop Diagrams Analysis

Invited abstract in session MB-13: OR Innovations in Policy Making - A, stream Soft OR and Problem Structuring Methods.

Monday, 10:30-12:00
Room: 15 (building: 116)

Authors (first author is the speaker)

1. Ke (Koko) Zhou
The Bartlett Faculty, University College London
2. Irene Pluchinotta
The Bartlett, University College London
3. Nici Zimmermann
The Bartlett Faculty, University College London

Abstract

Research on behavior and soft systems emphasizes the role of 'socio-emotional demands' in decision-making processes. Causal loop diagrams, which represent the complex mental models of decision-makers, play a crucial role in achieving a shared understanding of the system elements and boundaries. However, it is not fully understood which elements might be overlooked in the process of reaching a common understanding, and why this occurs. Drawing from critical systems thinking, we propose that during the creation of causal loop diagrams intended to aggregate diverse mental models, certain variables and links might be unintentionally neglected. We introduce the concept of two types of boundaries in these diagrams: structural (the interconnections between system elements) and emotional boundaries (how stakeholders perceive the variables with varying valence and activation). The complex interaction between these boundaries can lead to parts of the system being ignored. Through a case study on sustainable urban development, our research deepens the understanding of how boundaries are compared and elements of the system are marginalized. Our goal is to encourage the integration of socio-emotional and cognitive perspectives in analyzing causal loop diagrams in complex systems.

Keywords

Status: accepted

Back to the list of papers