Meaning
An academic researcher identifies the gap between verbal descriptions of action and the logic that actually produces behavior. The work of argyris establishes that individuals operate under mental models which often contradict their explicit claims. This discrepancy creates a hidden layer of interaction where unstated rules govern the actual exchange between partners.
Behavioral Observation
Observation of specific actions reveals the true mental map of an operator. When argyris studied how professionals interact, he found that they frequently adopt a defensive posture to maintain control. This strategy prevents the discovery of errors and the ability to learn from failures.
It suggests that the person in the seat is often the last to know the rules they are following.
Implicit Logic
Internal rules govern behavior. Although the work of argyris suggests people believe they are acting on stated values, the actual behavior follows different priorities.
Action Result
The cost of maintaining two separate theories of action is a loss of internal consistency. Because argyris demonstrated that these gaps are universal, the burden falls on the person in the seat to reconcile what was promised with what is done. A failure to address this split leads to an arrangement that functions on one level while slowly eroding on another.