TABLE 2.

Definition of terms (adapted from Powers, 1973; Mansell, 2005).

Term	Definition
Reference value	A “just right” state in which no action is required. This is an internal standard which is set by genetic disposition or past experience. A reference value can also be described as a goal, personal value, ideal, or principle.
Control system	A homeostatic system which acts to maintain the perception of a particular reference value.
Goal hierarchy	The structure in which personal goals are organized, ranging from abstract higher-level goals to more concrete lower-level goals.
Conflict	The experience of wanting to achieve two incompatible goals at the same time. This results from two control systems with two different reference values attempting to control the same perception. Unresolved conflict can lead to psychological distress.
Error	The discrepancy experienced when one’s current experiences do not match the way they want that experience to be (their reference value for that experience).
Awareness	The focus of an individual’s attention. An individual’s awareness moves around their goal hierarchy, although it is possible to have awareness of more than one goal at the same time.
Limited awareness	A state in which an individual is only aware of one of their goals, and is unaware of how the striving for and achievement of that goal would affect their other goals.
Awareness of the impact of suicide on one’s goals	Awareness of how one’s other higher-level goals would be adversely affected by suicide.