Systems Theory

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Systems Theory

• Donna Simmons, Ph.D.

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Definition of a System
A set of objects or entities that interrelate
with one another to form a whole. Littlejohn,
1996
Systems are Predictable Consistent Responsive
to Environment Bertalanfy
Solar System
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Characteristics of Systems
Systems are open to the environment to varying
extents.
CSUB Physical Environment Bakersfield and Kern
County Also region
CSUB Cultural Environment Diverse students,
faculty, staff, and community.
CSUB Political Environment Local, county, state
elected officials.
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Characteristics of Systems
Box of stones is not a system. Solar system is a
system. What is the difference? Wholeness and
Interdependence The whole is more than the sum
of its parts. The parts are interdependent.
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Wholeness
Synergy Mastermind Group Napoleon Hill, Think
Grow Rich. Comedy Writers work in groups to
play off each other, produce a better product
than if working individually.
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Interdependence/Interconnectedness
Ripple Effect Frazier Episode Daphne lied to
her ex-boyfriend. Everyone got pulled into the
lie. The family and friends are a system. Labor
Strike CSU Faculty go on strike. Everyone
connected with CSU is affected students, staff,
administrators, etc. The CSU is a system.
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Characteristics of Systems
Hierarchy Subsystem Suprasystem
Students of CSUB
State of CA
CSU
CSUB
Subsystem of CSU Suprasystem of Students of CSUB
Subsystem of State of CA Suprasystem of CSUB
Suprasystem of CSUB Subsystem of U.S.
Subsystem of CSUB
And so on.
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Galaxy Suprasystem
Solar System Subsystem Suprasystem
Earth Subsystem
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Characteristics of Systems
Self-Regulation Control Goal-oriented Activiti
es controlled by aims/goals A familys aim/goal
is to function as a family. Members of family
take on roles to achieve aim/goal.
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Characteristics of Systems
Interchange with Environment Input from
environment. Output into environment. System
and Environment Affect Each Other
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Characteristics of Systems
Balance (Homeostasis) Systems seek
balance. Mothers nag children to
behave. Couples with problems try to work them
out. Gravity in the solar system.
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Characteristics of Systems
Change and Adaptability System must adapt to
survive in a changing environment.
CSUB implements Outreach Programs
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Characteristics of Systems
Equifinality Achievement of Goal of System Goal
may be achieved in various ways and from
different starting points.
Family structures are different 2 parents, 1
parent, blended Families interact differently
from family to family.
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So What? How is systems theory used to
understand public relations?
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Boundary Spanner Role The PR person is the
connection between the organization and its
publics.
PR dept surveys parts supplier and suggests a
letter needs to be sent to suppliers from CEO,
produces letter sends to supplier
Muffler Manufacturer
PR dept produces employee newsletter, solicits
feedback from employees about company, gives
feedback to CEO.
Employees
Parts Supplier
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PR Person Helps Organization Communicate With
Its Publics. This.
Achieves balance/homeostasis with the
environment Maintains interdependence among
publics Alerts the organization to need for
change Works to achieve the goals of the
organization Plays a role in maintaining the
organization