Integration of functional systems theory, properties of the nervous system, and a triple-network model of the brain in understanding temperaments

The study is devoted to the integrative approach that links temperament with the blocks of the functional systems theory. Three key behavioral blocks are identified that successively replace each other: Block 1: Attention/analysis (afferent synthesis); Block 2: Action (programming and control); Block 3: State of rest (after accepting the result and triggering the acceptor of the result of the action). Based on this, hypothetically temperament is considered as a manifestation of the features of the transition between these blocks in the process of the behavioral cycle. In this case, a melancholic (weak) person has difficulties in the transition from Block 1 to Block 2, i.e. from analysis to action, which can lead to neuroticism. A choleric (unbalanced) person has difficulties transitioning from Block 2 to Block 3, “gets stuck” on the action block, with difficulty calming down, which can lead to irritability. For a phlegmatic person (inertia) the transition from Block 3 to Block 1, that is, from a state of rest to attention and external stimuli is difficult, which can manifest itself as apathy and drowsiness. The sanguine person (mobility) easily switches between blocks, sometimes superficially. At the same time, it is known that these behavioral features have their positive sides: greater functionality of the corresponding block for each of the temperaments, up to the point of showing talent. Hypothetically, Block 1 is associated with the Salience Network (SN), Block 2 with the Central Executive Network (CEN), and Block 3 with the Default Mode Network of the brain (DMN).