Causal Loop Diagram
Updated 2026-08-05
INTRODUCTION
English translation pending.
CORE DEFINITION
A systems thinking tool from system dynamics, developed within the tradition of Jay Forrester and popularized by Peter Senge, that represents a system as variable nodes joined by arrows labeled with polarity. Closed chains of arrows form reinforcing loops that amplify change or balancing loops that counteract it. The core claim is that behavior over time emerges from loop structure rather than from individual events. The qualification is that the diagram is qualitative, so it must be paired with stock and flow models to quantify behavior.
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
Reduce cognitive load
- Use Variable Listing: Name the few variables that actually drive the outcome before drawing links. - Use Polarity Labeling: Mark each arrow as same-direction or opposite-direction and verify the loop type. - Use Delay Marking: Flag lags on the links, since delayed feedback produces oscillation and overshoot.
Anchor fast decisions
Behavior in a system comes from chains of cause that feed back on themselves, so tracing individual events misses the structure generating them. Drawing the links makes the loop type visible, and the polarity of each arrow determines whether the loop amplifies or stabilizes. Delays on links explain why corrective action often arrives late and produces oscillation instead of smooth adjustment.
MINIMUM ACTION
In progress 0/1Practice this model in one real situation:
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Source support: Explicit
- zh.wikipedia.orghttps://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E5%9B%A0%E6%9E%9C%E8%BF%B4%E8%B7%AF%E5%9C%96verified
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