What is Perceptual Control Theory..?

Perceptual Control Theory is a theory of human behavior that says we act to keep our perception of the world within acceptable boundaries. For example, we wear a coat not because of the weather, but because we’ll feel cold and we don’t want to feel cold.

Once a certain action brings the perception under control, the system stops acting until the system is once again out of control. The Environment dictates which actions are possible to bring the perception under control. Control is not about planning, it’s about adjusting to environmental changes as they happen. By understanding that people act to control their perceptions, you’ll be better equipped to influence them.