untitled

of behavioral responses that is developed and mod-
ified through motivation, experience, and learning.
Johnson identified seven subsystems. However,
in this author’s operationalization of the model, as
in Grubbs (1980), I have included eight subsystems.
These eight subsystems and their goals and func-
tions are described in Table 8–1. Johnson noted
that these subsystems are found cross-culturally
and across a broad range of the phylogenetic scale.

She also noted the significance of social and cul-

tural factors involved in the development of the

subsystems. She did not consider the seven subsys-

tems as complete, because “the ultimate group of

response systems to be identified in the behavioral

system will undoubtedly change as research reveals

new subsystems or indicated changes in the struc-

ture, functions, or behavioral groupings in the orig-

inal set” (Johnson, 1980, p. 214).

CHAPTER 8 Dorothy Johnson’s Behavioral System Model and Its Applications 83

Table 8–1 The Subsystems of Behavior

ACHIEVEMENT SUBSYSTEM

Goal Mastery or control of self or the environment

Function To set appropriate goals

To direct behaviors toward achieving a desired goal

To perceive recognition from others

To differentiate between immediate goals and long-term goals

To interpret feedback (input received) to evaluate the achievement of goals

AFFILIATIVE SUBSYSTEM

Goal To relate or belong to someone or something other than oneself; to achieve intimacy and inclusion

Function To form cooperative and interdependent role relationships within human social systems

To develop and use interpersonal skills to achieve intimacy and inclusion

To share

To be related to another in a definite way

To use narcissistic feelings in an appropriate way

AGGRESSIVE/PROTECTIVE SUBSYSTEM

Goal To protect self or others from real or imagined threatening objects, persons, or ideas; to achieve self-

protection and self-assertion

Function To recognize biological, environmental, or health systems that are potential threats to self or others

To mobilize resources to respond to challenges identified as threats

To use resources or feedback mechanisms to alter biological, environmental, or health input or human

responses in order to diminish threats to self or others

To protect one’s achievement goals

To protect one’s beliefs

To protect one’s identity or self-concept

DEPENDENCY SUBSYSTEM

Goal To obtain focused attention, approval, nurturance, and physical assistance; to maintain the environmental

resources needed for assistance; to gain trust and reliance

Function To obtain approval, reassurance about self

To make others aware of self

To induce others to care for physical needs

To evolve from a state of total dependence on others to a state of increased dependence on the self

To recognize and accept situations requiring reversal of self-dependence (dependence upon others)

To focus on another or oneself in relation to social, psychological, and cultural needs and desires

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