How It Works
With a recent problem in mind, participants respond to 25 behavior-related statements, indicating the extent to which they practiced the behavior. By scoring and charting results, they create a visual depiction of their comfort level with each of the five problem-solving steps. Participants learn about the five-step Problem Solved! process, discuss everyday problem solving, apply the Problem Solved! process to a current problem, and make action plans.
Uses and Applications
Problem Solved! is best used with participants who require a quick problem-solving method. Other instruments (e.g., the "Force Field Problem Solving Model") can be used for working with in-depth problems. Effective when used as a stand-alone tool as well as part of a larger program, Problem Solved! is particularly helpful for individuals or groups who:
- Face repeated short-term problems
- Must engage in problem solving daily or weekly
- Need to solve problems within a short period of time (e.g., one hour)
- Need a standard method for problem solving that can be applied universally
- Tend to spend too long solving everyday problems
Learning Outcomes
- Learn an effective way to solve everyday problems
- Identify strengths and weaknesses at each step of the process
- Create action plans for improvement
TheoryProblem Solved! is based on a process of five steps (The Problem Solved! process). The instrument takes the perspective that a systematic method of problem solving followed and practiced on a regular basis yields rapid and efficient problem solving (Hesselberth, 1994). Drawing on the work of Sternberg (1986) and Klubnik & Greenwood (1994), the Problem Solved! Process is based on the most common and most sensible steps.