Problem-Solving Appraisal and Human Adjustment

Abstract

This article reviews and synthesizes more than 120 studies from 20 years (1982-2002) of research that has examined problem-solving appraisal as measured by the Problem Solving Inventory (PSI). The goals of the article are fourfold: (a) introduce the construct of problem-solving appraisal and the PSI within the applied problem-solving literature, (b) summarize and integrate existing findings using the PSI within and across four major content areas (psychological adjustment, physical health, coping, and educational and vocational issues), (c) identify promising research directions that might stimulate future research and promote theory development, and (d) identify implications for practitioners in the helping professions. We conclude that problem-solving appraisal as measured by the PSI is a useful psychological construct with implications for theory and many applications to build on peoples' strengths to enhance their life satisfaction and well-being.

The Relationship Between Interpersonal Problem Solving, Positive - Negative Affect and Anxiety

“…In relevant literature, significant relations have been demonstrated between social problemsolving skills and anxiety (Eskin, 2009;Hamarta, 2009;Siu & Shek, 2009;Wilson, Bushnell, Rickwood, Caputi, & Thomas, 2011). It is considered that once an individual views him/herself as an ineffective problem solver, the state of anxiety expands (Heppner et al, 2004). In a different research conducted by Karataş (2011), a relationship has been manifested between negative problem orientation and anxiety.…”

“…Though some individuals are equipped with sufficient problem-solving skills, they may still fail to perform effectively. It is a necessity that these individuals learn a constructive problem-solving style (Heppner, Witty, & Dixon, 2004) since when interpersonal problems are solved through non-constructive methods, such problems trigger worry, anxiety and anger. On the other hand, once problems are solved constructively, positive affect such as happiness arise (Türnüklü & Şahin, 2004;Öğülmüş, 2001).…”

The Examination of the Relation between Teacher Candidates’ Problem Solving Appraisal and Utilization of Motivated Strategies for Learning

“…This inventory assesses the evaluation of the individual's perception of his/her own problem solving beliefs and styles, not his/her actual problem solving skills (Heppner, Witty & Dixon, 2004). The adaptation study of the inventory to Turkish language has been carried out by Şahin, Şahin & Heppner (1993).…”

“…Studies show that the individuals perceiving themselves as effective problem solvers have a higher tendency to enjoy being in cognitive activity; on the contrary, the individuals perceiving themselves as ineffective problem solvers focus at the problem poorly and have a tendency to accuse themselves (Heppner, Reeder & Larson, 1983). The way an individual appreciates and perceives their own problem solving skills can be an important component of the approach against the difficulties of life (Heppner, Witty & Dixon, 2004). Setting forth that individuals perceiving themselves as effective problem solvers are really more effective problem solvers (Heppner, Witty & Dixon, 2004), it can be proposed that the perception of the individual about their problem-solving skills is important besides the actual problem-solving skills.…”

“…The way an individual appreciates and perceives their own problem solving skills can be an important component of the approach against the difficulties of life (Heppner, Witty & Dixon, 2004). Setting forth that individuals perceiving themselves as effective problem solvers are really more effective problem solvers (Heppner, Witty & Dixon, 2004), it can be proposed that the perception of the individual about their problem-solving skills is important besides the actual problem-solving skills.…”