Teresa Asatryan

Topic: Psychology of problem solving

Every day, people tend to come across different problems which they are supposed to solve.
Some problems seem to be easy, and their solution proves to be obvious. Others happen to be
difficult and require much effort. Although some people are likely to believe that this is a natural
ability which everyone has, solving problems appears to be a crucial skill for specialists in
different spheres to acquire, as well as a rather complicated process, with its definition,
importance, and models.
Solving problems is acknowledged to be a process of accomplishment of actions and reflective
operations. It aims to achieve a goal which has been set in the frame of the problem situation.
Solving problems is acknowledged to be a part of thinking. From the cognitive viewpoint, the
process of solving problems is one of the most complicated functions which the intellect has.
Therefore, it is possible to define it as a cognitive process of a higher rank which requires
approval and control from more elemental fundamental skills. Generally, the process of solving
problems consists of the following stages. First, it is necessary to detect the problem situation.
Second, the task is supposed to be set. It implies defining the given and the aim. The final stage
is to find the solution to the problem. These stages are likely to be observed in different theories
devoted to solving problems.
The process of solving problems could be described in the following way. All the information
which is available at the moment and is related to the problem is called the awareness state.
Solving problems can be considered as a sequential changeover from one awareness state to
another. This continues until the required awareness state is reached. The changeover is
performed with the help of operators finding which is the major difficulty in solving problems 
Solving problems is a mental process. Therefore, it is possible to distinguish three types of
solutions: intuitive solutions, solutions based on judgments, and creative solutions. Intuitive
solutions are made due to the feeling that it is right to make it. In this case, the person who is
supposed to make a decision does not weigh pros and cons consciously and do not attempt to
analyze the situation. Many specialists admit that, in the course of serious problem-solving, they
rely on the non-formalized information and intuition. However, it is necessary to take into
account that people who make right intuitive decisions have much experience. In fact, intuition is
unconsciously cumulative and processed volumes of information.
Solutions based on judgments are a conscious choice. They are based on the knowledge and
experience. In this case, people juxtapose the present situation and analog situations in the
past. They try to make a prognosis on the consequences of the decision to make. Normally, the
alternative which was successful in the past is likely to be chosen. There are two advantages to
making solutions based on judgments. First, they require mere experience and knowledge and
do not take much time. Second, contrary to the intuitive approach, in this situation, it is possible
to give explanations. However, there are certain drawbacks. First, it is necessary to have
previous experience. Hence, in new situations, this method cannot be applied. Second, using
previous experience might result in missing a great alternative which could be more effective
than the variants already known and used.
Creative solutions are a complex and systematized process. It consists of a problem diagnosis,
a definition of limitations, criteria for problem-solving, search for alternatives, their evaluation,
and the final choice. Creative solving is based on the objective analytical process and the
objective formalized method. The solution to make can be complex and large-scale. Besides, it
might influence many people. So, its scientific proof gets more important. At the same time,
volitional methods in its taking-up appear to be less acceptable. The major difference between
creative solutions and solutions based on judgment is that the first ones do not depend on the
previous experience. As already mentioned, creative problem-solving comprises the following
stages: a problem diagnosis, a formulation of limitations and criteria to solve the problem,
elicitation of alternatives, their evaluation, and the final decision.
In conclusion, it is necessary to point out that solving problems is a mental activity which is
performed every day. There are three types of solutions: intuitive, based on judgments and
creative. Our choice is based on the current situation, whether it’s a personal problem or
something else. The one thing we should know is that avoiding problems is not a solution, and
we have to face them every day, in order to be prepared for the bigger problems that are
coming our way.

References

Carlgren, T. (2013). Communication, critical thinking, problem solving: A suggested course for all high school students in the 21st

century. Interchange, 44(1-2), 63-81.

Chaffee, J. (2015). Solving problems. In Thinking Critically (pp. 105-145). Stamford, CT: Cengage Learning.

Laukkanen, L. (2016). Solving work-related ethical problems. Nursing Ethics, 23(8), 838-850.

Sak, U. (2011). Selective problem solving (sps): A model for teaching creative problem-solving. Gifted Education International, 27(3), 349-

357.