The Constraint-Expansion-Reconfiguration Feedback Theory (CERFT)

The Constraint-Expansion-Reconfiguration Feedback Theory (CERFT) is proposed asa two-branch dynamic-systems architecture for examining how a constraint can generatepursuit, how expanded access can reduce the unmet condition that sustained that pursuit,and how subsequent use can further alter the motivation to continue.The theory distinguishes three constructs that must not be collapsed into one variable:access-seeking desire, continued-use desire, and experienced reward.Its primary conceptual case concerns a person who slowly enjoys a limited supply of afavorite cake, develops a desire for greater access, obtains a larger supply, and may thenexhibit reduced access-seeking pressure and, after further consumption, reduced desire tocontinue eating.Two pathways are formalized: Fulfillment-Induced Demand Dissipation (FIDD) andExposure-Induced Marginal-Reward Attenuation (EIMRA). These pathways can interact butare not equivalent and need not occur together.The Subjective-Agentic Branch represents agent-level states when relevant; the Mechanical-Systemic Branch represents measurable stocks, flows, states, outputs, and feedback withoutrequiring subjective variables.Candidate state-transition equations, operational definitions, propositions, boundaryconditions, falsification criteria, and an empirical research roadmap are specified.The manuscript is a theoretical proposal, not a report of completed experiments. Itsgenerality, parameter identifiability, predictive performance, and originality remain to beestablished through systematic comparison with existing theories and independent empiricalvalidation.Keywords: constraint; access expansion; goal fulfillment; desire reversal; marginal reward;satiety; habituation; feedback; dynamic systems; state-space model; subjective-agentic systems;mechanical-systemic systems.