Quantum theory as a tool for the description of simple psychological phenomena

TL;DR

This paper introduces a quantum-theoretic framework for modeling simple psychological phenomena, enabling probabilistic predictions of behavior based on stimuli and system evolution.

Contribution

It develops a novel application of quantum theory of open systems to psychology, linking Lewin's psychological field theory with quantum formalism for the first time.

Findings

Model explains cognitive dissonance phenomena.

Analyzes group competition effects on psychological unity.

Provides a mathematical basis for probabilistic psychological predictions.

Abstract

We propose the consistent statistical approach for the quantitative description of simple psychological phenomena using the methods of quantum theory of open systems (QTOS). Taking as the starting point the K. Lewin's psychological field theory we show that basic concepts of this theory can be naturally represented in the language of QTOS. In particular provided that all stimuli acting on psychological system (that is individual or group of interest) are known one can associate with these stimuli corresponding operators and after that to write down the equation for evolution of density matrix of the relevant open system which allows one to find probabilities of all possible behavior alternatives. Using the method proposed we consider in detail simple model describing such interesting psychological phenomena as cognitive dissonance and the impact of competition among group members on its unity.