Problem Solving – Psychology – UGC NET – Notes

• Problem solving is a core cognitive activity involving the identification of a problem, generation of possible solutions, evaluation of alternatives, and selection of an effective course of action. It has been extensively studied within Cognitive Psychology and Psychology using controlled experiments, observational studies, and computational models. Empirical research demonstrates that problem solving is not a single process but consists of multiple types that differ in structure, complexity, and cognitive demands.

Nature of Problem Solving

• A problem is defined as a situation in which there is a goal to be achieved but no immediately obvious method for achieving it. Problem solving involves transforming an initial state into a goal state through a series of cognitive operations.
• The nature of human problem solving methods has been studied by psychologists over the past hundred years. There are several methods of studying problem solving, including introspection, behaviourism, simulation, computer modeling, and experimentation.
• Beginning with the early experimental work of the Gestaltists in Germany and continuing through the 1960s and 1970s, research on problem solving was conducted using simple laboratory tasks. These tasks had clearly defined solutions and could be solved within a short time. Researchers could trace the participants’ problem-solving steps in a controlled environment.
• The assumption behind this approach was that simple tasks like the Tower of Hanoi represented the essential features of real-world problems, and that the cognitive processes used in such tasks were similar to those used in everyday situations. Thus, simple problems were used mainly for convenience and clarity.
• While laboratory tasks help explain the logic and reasoning behind problem solving, they fail to capture the complexity and emotional aspects of real-life problems. In clinical psychology, researchers have highlighted the role of emotions, showing that poor emotional control can interfere with focus and hinder effective problem resolution.
• Human problem solving involves two main processes: (i) problem orientation, and (ii) problem-solving skills. Problem orientation refers to the attitude and motivation towards a problem, while problem-solving skills involve the actual cognitive and behavioural steps taken to resolve it. When these skills are effectively applied, they lead to successful outcomes.
• Problem solving is a mental process and a part of broader activities like problem finding and problem shaping. It is considered one of the most complex higher-order cognitive processes, requiring control over basic mental abilities.
• It occurs when an individual or system moves from a given state to a goal state. Problem solving is one of the major forms of cognition, which involves the mental representation and manipulation of information to reach solutions.
• Problem solving becomes necessary when a person wants to achieve a goal but faces obstacles. Various psychologists have defined it differently. According to Baron (2001), problem solving involves efforts to choose among different responses to achieve desired goals. Witting and Williams III (1984) defined it as the use of thought processes to overcome obstacles and move toward goals.

The Stages of Problem Solving

The situation that exists at the beginning of a problem solving task is called the initial state. From this point, the system moves through a series of intermediate states, which are steps designed to gradually lead toward the final objective. When the desired outcome is reached, the system is said to have attained the goal state.

Thus, there are four main (molar components) of any problem solving activity:

• The initial state: how the starting conditions of the problem are defined.
• The operators: the moves or operations used to move from one state to another.
• The intermediate states: the various stages formed while applying operators on the way to the final goal.
• The goal state: how the final outcome or solution is described.

The internal understanding or mental representation of these components is known as the problem space. This problem space differs from one individual to another because it depends on how a person interprets and approaches the problem.

It is important to note that each individual’s problem space is unique and is also influenced by the nature of the problem. The way the initial state is defined plays a crucial role in problem solving. In some cases, it may lead to an efficient solution, while in others, it may result in increased complexity and difficulty in reaching the goal.