The Constraint-Coupled Functional Divergence Theory (CCFDT)
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: The Constraint-Coupled Functional Divergence Theory (CCFDT) is proposed as ageneral analytical framework for examining systems in which multiple functionally impor-tant requirements interact under shared constraints. The central mechanism, termed theConstraint-Coupled Priority-Spillover Mechanism (CCPSM), describes how constraintscan restrict the available policy space, how decision priorities determine which requirementsreceive precedence, and how an intervention directed toward one functional dimension canproduce consequential effects in other dimensions.The theory distinguishes structural functional conflict, decision dilemmas, decisionimpasses, strict logical contradictions, systemic paradoxes, and functional divergence.These outcomes are conceptually related but analytically distinct. A structural conflictdoes not necessarily produce indecision; a practical trade-off is not necessarily a logicalcontradiction; and a single decision dilemma does not establish the presence of a persistentsystemic paradox.The framework is designed to be medium-invariant in its structural form, while re-quiring domain-specific operational definitions, measurement procedures, constraints, andacceptance thresholds. Time is treated as an optional analytical dimension for the generalmechanism, but becomes necessary when a particular research claim concerns temporalchange, recurrence, persistence, or feedback dynamics. The number of alternatives isrepresented by an open parameter n, rather than being restricted to binary decisions.Continuous policy spaces are also admitted where appropriate.A wildlife-rehabilitation scenario involving the tension between clinical protection andspecies-appropriate functional recovery is used as the primary illustrative case. The caseprovides a concrete setting in which to distinguish local protection, movement opportunities,physical conditioning, and release readiness without assuming that every managementarrangement creates an unavoidable conflict.The article specifies the theory's constructs, mathematical representation, feasibilityconditions, conditional propositions, candidate outcome measures, empirical hypotheses,falsification criteria, research methodology, ethical safeguards, and cross-domain validationstrategy. The proposed framework is conceptual and mathematical; it is not presented asan established universal law. Its empirical validity, predictive value, distinctiveness, andgenerality remain matters for systematic investigation.Keywords: constraint coupling; functional divergence; decision dilemma; decision impasse;systemic paradox; logical contradiction; multi-objective decision-making; medium invariance;feasibility analysis; theoretical formalization.
Author: Shan, Shamiul Hoque
Language: English
Field: Decision Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7225463336