An Automata-Based Method to Formalize Psychological Theories -- The Case Study of Lazarus and Folkman's Stress Theory

TL;DR

This paper tackles the lack of formal models in psychology by introducing an automata-based framework to formalize verbal psychological theories. It develops a modular approach using synchronized and compact automata, with refinement relations to connect successive models, and demonstrates the method through a stepwise formalization of Lazarus and Folkman’s stress theory, covering relational stress, cognitive appraisal, coping, and commitments. The contributions include a scalable modeling toolkit, a concrete stress-theory case study, and a roadmap for extensions such as time, probability, and formal verification using standard tools. The approach promises to enable precise predictions, easier collaboration, and automatic comparison across theories, potentially transforming theory-building and verification in psychology.

Abstract

Formal models are important for theory-building, enhancing the precision of predictions and promoting collaboration. Researchers have argued that there is a lack of formal models in psychology. We present an automata-based method to formalize psychological theories, i.e. to transform verbal theories into formal models. This approach leverages the tools of theoretical computer science for formal theory development, for verification, comparison, collaboration, and modularity. We exemplify our method on Lazarus and Folkman's theory of stress, showcasing a step-by-step modeling of the theory.

Figures (12)

• Figure 1: Models and properties
• Figure 2: Synchronised transitions and $\tau$-transitions
• Figure 3: unfolding of a compact-automaton
• Figure 6: Refinement of an automaton
• Figure 7: system $\mathcal{S}_1$

Theorems & Definitions (11)

• Definition 1
• Example 1
• Definition 2
• Example 2
• Definition 3
• Definition 4
• Example 3
• Definition 5
• Remark 1
• Remark 2