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==The methodology of modeling, and PCT as model==
{{wide image|Perceptual Control Theory 01.png|900px|alt=Perceptual control theory compared with theories of behaviourism and cognitive psychology|Perceptual control theory compared with theories of behaviourism and cognitive psychology}}
The principal datum in PCT methodology is the controlled variable. The fundamental step of PCT research, the test for controlled variables, begins with the slow and gentle application of disturbing influences to the state of a variable in the environment which the researcher surmises is already under control by the observed organism. It is essential not to overwhelm the organism's ability to control, since that is what is being investigated. If the organism changes its actions just so as to prevent the disturbing influence from having the expected effect on that variable, that is strong evidence that the experimental action disturbed a controlled variable. It is crucially important to distinguish the perceptions and point of view of the observer from those of the observed organism. It may take a number of variations of the test to isolate just which aspect of the environmental situation is under control, as perceived by the observed organism.<ref>{{cite book | last =Runkel | first =Philip J. | title =People as living things | publisher =Living Control Systems Publishing | date =2003 | ___location =Hayward, CA | pages =77–79 | isbn =978-0-9740155-0-7 }}</ref><ref name=marken.center.fielder>{{cite journal | last =Marken | first =Richard S. | title =Controlled variables: psychology as the center fielder views it | journal =American Journal of Psychology | volume =114 | issue =2 | pages =259–281 | date =2001 | jstor =1423517 | doi =10.2307/1423517 | pmid =11430151 | citeseerx =10.1.1.554.9588 }}</ref>
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