Second-order change describes when a system restructures its homeostasis in response to positive feedback. An example of second-order change would be:
A) a couple reducing the pursuer-distancer pattern and increasing each person's ability to tolerate more togetherness and more distance.
B) when roles reverse in the family, but the underlying family structure and rules for relating stay essentially the same.
C) any interaction which results in confrontation.
D) a couple who make change when the other person is present, but return to homeostasis when their partner is not present.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Choice A describes a restructuring of the homeostasis of the couple's relationship, which is driven by positive feedback. The pursuer-distancer pattern is a negative feedback loop that creates a stable but unhealthy equilibrium. By increasing the ability to tolerate more togetherness and distance, the couple is bringing in new information and creating a more adaptive equilibrium, which represents second-order change. Choices B, C, and D do not involve restructuring the homeostasis in response to positive feedback, so they do not represent second-order change.

Second-Order Change Describes When a System Restructures Its Homeostasis in Response