Mental Models and Their Dynamics, Adaptation, and Control

This book introduces a generic approach to model the use and adaptation of mental models, including the control over this. In their mental processes, humans often make use of internal mental models as a kind of blueprints for processes that can take place in the world or in other persons. By internal mental simulation of such a mental model in their brain, they can predict and be prepared for what can happen in the future. Usually, mental models are adaptive: they can be learned, refined, revised, or forgotten, for example. Although there is a huge literature on mental models in various disciplines, a systematic account of how to model them computationally in a transparent manner is lacking. This approach allows for computational modeling of humans using mental models without a need for any algorithmic or programming skills, allowing for focus on the process of conceptualizing, modeling, and simulating complex, real-world mental processes and behaviors. The book is suitable for and is used as course material for multidisciplinary Master and Ph.D. students.

Shows Mental Models in Individual Processes and Social Processes Includes wide details about the Self-Modeling Network Modeling Written by experts in the field

Inhalt
Dynamics, Adaptation and Control for Mental Models: A Cognitive Architecture.- Bringing Networks to the Next Level: Self-Modeling Networks for Adaptivity and Control of Mental Models.- On Becoming a Good Driver: Modeling the Learning of a Mental Model.- Controlling Your Mental Models: Using Metacognition to Control Use and Adaptation for Multiple Mental Models.- Disturbed by Flashbacks: a Controlled Adaptive Network Model Addressing Mental Models for Flashbacks from PTSD.<p