Self-presentation of own body in the structure of mental models

Mental models represent a generalized view of the world around them, which allows a person to effectively interact in the environment. There are several approaches to explaining the formation and use of mental models, which in their own way consider the essence of this concept. The article describes the history of the study of mental models and identifies the internal contradictions within this concept. Multiple points of view on the essence of mental models are indicated, the different orientation of mental models is substantiated. The place of mental models in the structure of cognitive processes is indicated, an assumption is made about the connection between mental models and working memory. The authors also describe the basic, fundamental characteristics of mental models. The purpose of the article is a theoretical analysis of modern approaches and consideration of the construction of mental models by the subject in relation to his own body. The authors consider two leading theories that explain the mechanisms of recognition of one's own reflection in a mirror based on the construction of a mental model. The first theory is based on the fact that the subject makes an inductive inference aimed at understanding mirroring. The second theory is based on the fact that the body makes a deductive conclusion, and that the necessary and sufficient conditions for mirror self-knowledge are a complete understanding of the constancy of the object, understanding the correspondence to the mirror, and objectification of body parts. The article reveals the mechanisms and theories of building a mental model of one's own body. In conclusion, the authors present a hypothesis about the levels of building mental models.