Colleague 1
Angela Eaker,
Understanding Mental Models and Their Impact on Relationships and Decision-Making
Contrasting Mental Models
Mental models are internal representations of how individuals perceive the world, shaped by personal experiences, beliefs, and assumptions (Senge, 2006). One mental model I hold is that structure and planning are essential for success. I approach tasks with detailed outlines, timelines, and contingency plans. In contrast, a close friend operates under the mental model that flexibility and spontaneity foster creativity and better outcomes. They prefer to adapt in the moment and often resist rigid planning.
Another mental model I hold is that conflict should be addressed directly and promptly. I believe in open communication to resolve misunderstandings quickly. A family member, however, believes that avoiding confrontation maintains harmony, and they often delay or avoid difficult conversations.
Impact on Interactions
These differing mental models have led to tension in both relationships. With my friend, our collaboration on a shared project was strained because I perceived their spontaneity as disorganization, while they saw my structure as controlling. We eventually addressed this by agreeing on a hybrid approach—setting broad goals while allowing room for flexibility in execution.
With my family members, our differing views on conflict led to unresolved issues and emotional distance. I initially pushed for immediate discussions, which made them uncomfortable. Over time, I learned to approach sensitive topics more gently and to respect their need for space before engaging in dialogue.
The Value of Understanding Mental Models
Understanding mental models is essential for effective problem-solving and decision-making. According to Tokuhama-Espinosa et al. (2023), mental frameworks influence how individuals approach complex problems and determine which strategies they use to solve them. When people are aware of their own and others’ mental models, they can better navigate interpersonal dynamics, reduce misunderstandings, and collaborate more effectively.
Moreover, mental models can either enhance or hinder decision-making depending on their accuracy and flexibility. Inflexible or outdated models may lead to cognitive bias or poor judgment, while adaptive models support learning and innovation (Interaction Design Foundation, 2025). By reflecting on and updating our mental models, we become more open to alternative perspectives and better equipped to handle uncertainty and complexity.
References
Senge, P. M. (2006). The fifth discipline: The art and practice of the learning organization (Rev. ed.). Doubleday.
Tokuhama-Espinosa, T., Simmers, K., Batchelor, D., Nelson, A. D., & Borja, C. (2023). A theory of mental frameworks. Frontiers in Psychology, 14. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1220664
Interaction Design Foundation. (2025). What are mental models? https://www.interaction-design.org/literature/topics/mental-models
Colleague 2
Asaenett Campbell
Greetings All,
A mental model is an internal picture that affects each of us actions and relationship with others. It represents the reality we construct in our brain and how it affects our thinking and behavior towards each other.
The mental modes that I personally have that differ from colleagues, family and friends are independent thinking and open-mindedness: My independent thinking allows me to question assumptions, interpreting data and events based on my own beliefs, ideas and thinking. Not by established rules, routines and categories which are facilitated by my colleagues and friends. As an independent thinker I stand apart with my own opinions to say what I think and determine my course of action on what I know rather than on what other people say or think. As an independent thinker I stay mentally alert to think critically.
Open-mindedness breaks me out of mental boxes that my friends, family and colleagues enjoy. My open-mindedness rejects acceptance of rules and labels. Instead Look for opportunities for new ideas and approach. I came to my own conclusion despite what others feel and think. My open-mindedness is like a young child learning about the world and its value.
This difference in mental models sometimes leads to conflict amongst family, friends and colleagues. Some people may feel threatening, confused as well as opinion defers. To curtail and mitigate these issues I must recognize the difference and eliminate frustration of others by being sensitive to how I deliver my thinking. Practice empathy to promote freedom of thoughts of others in a genuine caring environment. Compromise and communicate openly by staying calm and controlled in our conversation with respect and integrity in our approach. As Peter Senge (2006) states “Our thinking of today has established a more tenacious and oppressive belief in fate than has ever before existed”.
Mental models allow me to be better problem-solver and decision-maker by providing frameworks for analyzing situations, simplifying complex information, and identifying potential solutions. Mental models act as cognitive tools that assist me in understanding how things work, how people respond, how to condense complex problems, prepare for outcomes, and make more informed decisions.
Garrity, E. J. (2018). Using systems thinking to understand and enlarge mental models: Helping the transition to a sustainable worldLinks to an external site.Links to an external site.. Systems, 6(2), 15–31. https://doi.org/10.3390/systems6020015
Senge, P. M. (2006). Mental models. In The fifth discipline: The art and practice of the learning organization (pp. 129–162). Doubleday.
Yang, M. M., Yang, F., Cui, T., & Cheng, Y.-C. (2019). Analysing the dynamics of mental models using causal loop diagramsLinks to an external site.Links to an external site.. Australian Journal of Management, 44(3), 495–512. https://doi.org/10.1177/0312896218823831
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