Causal loop diagram

What is a Variable (Node) in a causal loop diagram?

• A factor that influences other variables but does not change itself

• An element or factor in the system that can change over time (Correct)

• A representation of the flow between two parts of a system

• A boundary that limits the system’s scope

What is a Causal Link

• A variable that accumulates quantities over time

• A feedback loop that stabilizes system behavior

• An arrow showing how one variable affects another

• A connection showing the flow of resources between reservoirs

What does a Positive Link (+) indicate?

• An increase in one variable causes an increase in another, or a decrease causes a decrease

• An increase in one variable causes a decrease in another, or vice versa

• The rate at which a quantity changes over time

• A balancing feedback loop that maintains equilibrium

What does a Negative Link (–) indicate

• An increase in one variable causes a decrease in another, or vice versa

• Two variables that increase or decrease together

• A variable that stores quantities in the system

• A reinforcing feedback loop that accelerates change

What is a Feedback Loop?

• The boundary that separates a system from its environment

• A diagram showing stocks and flows in a system

• A one-way relationship where one variable affects another without return influence

• A sequence of variables connected by causal links that returns to influence the starting variable

A feedback loop that causes a system to grow or decline exponentially.

• Balancing Loop

• Negative Link

• Reinforcing Loop

• Flow Rate

A feedback loop that resists change and promotes goal-seeking or equilibrium.

• Reinforcing Loop

• Causal Link

• Variable

• Balancing Loop

The limits or edges that define what is included or excluded in the system.

• Stock

• Flow Rate

• System Boundary

• Feedback Loop

In a causal loop diagram, what is the purpose of a feedback loop?

• To illustrate cause and effect relationships between variables

• 
  To confuse the reader

• o add unnecessary complexity

• To showcase irrelevant information

How are causal relationships represented in a causal loop diagram?

• By circles representing variables

• Through color coding

• By using different font styles

• By arrows connecting variables in the diagram