Cyclical flows.links between issues can either be a closed loop, or an open loop. Case 1 is a circular closed loop that links the issues A, B, C and D. Case 2 is an open loop in the form of a spiral between issues A, B, C, and D. Such loops can be a downward spiral or an upward spiral.

The causes leading to a state of poverty are usually illustrated as a downward spiral � to show their cumulative effects.