Biophysical shunt theory for neuropsychopathology: biphasal homeostatic dysregulation

Objective. We challenge Freud's psychodynamic theory using a systematic mod us operandi which has been outlined in detail in a succession of articles. Here, we deal with Freud's first assumption of human psychological primacy in forming goal-directed behavior. According to our theory, biphasal homeos tatic dysregulation is the underlying mechanism of clinical phenomenology. Model: Evolutionary neurobiology has provided humans with a precise technic al solution for optimal organismic survival. Humans are armed with an accur ate negative feedback mechanism that operates within the alternating upper and lower thresholds of biphasal homeostatic maintenance and is coupled wit h a basal indicator of individual sensation of the degree of the given orga nismic well-being in any unit of time. This originates the organismic pleas ure principle (OPP). The latter is achieved by a straightforward quantal in jection of endorphins according to one of eight possible body operational r egimens. Thanks to the essential duality of the dynamic interactions, stipu lated by the complex harmonics of term-dependent and event-dependent adapta tion when one or more of the essential elements for homeostasis goes above or below its predetermined threshold, certain branches of the organismic de fense system (ODS) are 'turned on' in the second phase of homeostasis. The individual then adapts behavioral modifications directed toward a long-last ing search for the optimal resources needed for normal survival. This evolu tionary biphasal homeostatic design has an intrinsic, methodical expression that confirms changes and correctly informs the individual about them, fur ther imposing behavioral modifications, when necessary. In cases of a homeo static derangement, the OPP is replaced by an erratic inclusion of pain, te nsion or depression, all components of the alarm system of the ODS, which m ay lead to disordered behavioral patterns. Conclusions: The underlying biol ogical mechanism of goal-directed assignments for biphasal homeostatic main tenance is described. The intrinsic rules and regulations that guide both n ormal and abnormal survival may be clinically manifest. Normal survival beh avior is necessary to regain organismic homeostasis.