A Review of Theory and Research on Miller's Response Competition (Conflict) Models

Abstract

This is a review of published theory and research on Miller's conflict models. The research is largely supporting of the many deductions that are generated from the postulate system, with especially extensive research on approach-withdrawal response competition (AW-RC). There is also impressive agreement in demonstrating an ordered arrangement of difficulty among the RC models [approach-approach response competition (AA-RC) to approach-withdrawal response competition (AW-RC) to withdrawal-withdrawal response competition (WW-RC) and double approach-withdrawal response competition (DAW-RC)]. The most apparent weakness is the divergence between the conceptual importance of oscillation behavior and its limited direct use in research. A number of heuristic thrusts into new methods and contents are noted: namely, varied punishment effects, mastery of fear, risk taking, psychopathology and personality testing, alcohol and drug addiction, attitude formation and change, unpracticed time-course effects, and development of another RC model [withdrawal-approach response competition (WA-RC)]. Potential relevance to the various RC models is noted of a theory of active CNS reward and passive CNS punishment centers.

The "self digest": Self-knowledge serving self-regulatory functions.

“…E. Miller, 1944). This type of conflict has been associated in the response competition literature with a number of consequences, including vacillation, blocking, and “fleeing the field” (see Epstein, 1978; Heilizer, 1977; Lewin, 1935; Miller, 1959). Such conflict should influence self-evaluation and self-esteem.…”

Integrative theories of therapy.

“…Many of these techniques have since been "rediscovered" and are now a basic part of several modern-day therapies. researchers in learning (see review by Heilizer, 1977), their integration did not have very much direct influence on the field of psychotherapy. Its influence has been more indirect, serving as a reminder of the possibility and potentials of integration during times when integrative thinking was not a part of the zeitgeist.…”

Integrative theories of therapy.

“…Although their theory of anxiety and conflict caught the attention of researchers in learning (see review by Heilizer, 1977), their integration did not have very much direct influence on the field of psychotherapy. Its influence has been more indirect, serving as a reminder of the possibility and potentials of integration during times when integrative thinking was not a part of the Zeitgeist.…”