The Three Rings of the PCS Model Explained

The PCS model (Thompson 2001) has three concentric rings (inside to outside: P-C-S). The “P” stands for personal prejudice or the personal, psychological level; the “C” stands for the cultural level- consensus, commonality, conformity; the “S” level stands for the structural level. (Ledwith 128) Apply: This model is useful for community development because it allows us to see how different levels of interaction and analysis from the personal to societal and structural affect life. Specifically in terms of discrimination we can break down the reasons behind issues of inequality in society- where do they come from?

How were they built? People in communities are all at different levels within their PCS model- people are influenced and affected by the lives they lead- when they were raised by their parents, how they raise their own family.

You need to take this into account- where are people found in these PCS rings? You also need to remember that the PCS rings ARE concentric and they DO affect each other.

When trying to address issues such as discrimination, you need to figure out which circle might be the driving force, and where you can intervene in the other circles as well. Adapt: I think we’re starting to see how many of these theories can be adapted to other fields.

I think the biggest takeaway is knowing that people are at different developmental stages. Someone’s personal prejudices are often highly influenced by the culture and structure they were raised in (often not a choice). It’s easy to attack someone for their personal beliefs, especially when you don’t know where they’re coming from.

I think we can adapt this model to any situation dealing with social justice issues. You need to unravel these circles, knowing they affect each other.