Motivation as developmental coordination: The generative arc as a heuristic framework for psychopathology

Table 1 Core architectural levels and constraints of the generative arc

Level of organization	Dominant timescale	Primary function	Characteristic organizational tendency when disrupted
Fast affective systems	Milliseconds-seconds	Rapid valuation and action readiness	Hyperreactivity; impulsive responding
Intermediate learning and regulation	Seconds-days	Contextual learning and policy updating	Volatility; unstable action selection
Higher-order motivational organization	Months-years	Goal integration, identity, coherence of agency	Excessive rigidity; inflexible prioritization

Levels reflect interacting timescales rather than discrete or independent systems.