ABSTRACT
In this chapter we propose a theory in which behavior (broadly comprising relevant cognition, emotion, and behavior) and physiology are coordinated and integrated by a number of separate behavioral and physiological programs, for convenience termed here biobehavioral programs. We propose that resilience may vary over time and between persons, depending on which program exercises control over behavior. More specifically, we will describe two main biobehavioral programs that control behavior adaptively in low-predictable and in highly predictable environments respectively. Behavior and emotions guided by the first program are highly reactive, while behavior and emotions controlled by the second program are guided by models of behaviors that are optimal in their own contexts and that have been consolidated in memory to form context models. Here, we will argue that interventions and experiences that increase resilience may accomplish this by shifting control from the reactive program to the context model program.
