Step 2: Rewards and Consequences Learning (10 Min)

Following the completion of Step 1 and confirmation that this is relevant to the decision maker, the areas of the brain involved in Step 2 will have been excited and be prepared to contribute to decision-making by triggering the motivation to continue and begin seeking a solution. This is essential because the Deliberate system is energy-intensive, and the ACC is always looking to minimize extra energy use. It can be challenging, and given that progress towards changing the situation is only beginning, it is possible that the contributors of down-regulation are present. Such as high emotion, time stress, etc. This is why performing a simple assessment using the ABSE can be very helpful in establishing that the brain systems are available to complete Step 2.

This step aims to excite the brain’s motivational system, the dopaminergic system, by identifying self-referential, relevant rewards and consequences. It helps the user understand the benefits of achieving their goal and the drawbacks of failing to do so.  This is an essential step in activating the deliberate system in full.  By working through the following information, dopamine concentration can be elevated to the point where the critical event of the cortical-thalamic release occurs.  Without this event, the following steps of solution-seeking are unlikely to be successful. As step 2 begins, the areas of higher cognitive activity will be inhibited until they are needed.  It is the identification and recognition of rewards and consequences that triggers these areas to be released.

This area includes considering the following;

• Associated rewards
• Impact on higher value outcomes
• Associated negative consequences

Before the Moving Ahead

Is this the best time to make a deliberate decision? The right time to make a complex decision for selecting a new solution depends on a number of factors.

During the DIY DDMP

Use the Automatic Systems Behavior Evaluation as a quick tool of 20 seconds to provide the ACC with information about the likelihood of remaining up-regulated. If down-regulation has occurred than progress in the DIY DDMP will be impaired.

When you are ready, click below and proceed to Step 2. frmTransitonDDMPStep2Intro2.1