The Effect of Solution‐Focused Versus Problem‐Focused Questions: A Replication

Abstract

In therapeutic conversations, questions can be considered as interventions in their own right. This study is a cross-cultural replication of Grant (Journal of Systemic Therapies, 2012, 31, 2, 21) study on the effects of different types of questions on various clinically relevant variables. A total of 204 students of a Spanish university described a real-life problem that they wanted to solve and were then randomly assigned to either a solution-focused or a problem-focused questions condition. Before and after answering the questions, they completed a set of measures that assessed positive and negative affect, self-efficacy, and goal attainment. Solution-focused questions produced a significantly greater increase in self-efficacy, goal approach, and action steps than problem-focused questions, and a significantly greater decrease in negative affect, providing further empirical support to solution-focused practices.

Approaching solutions or avoiding problems? The differential effects of approach and avoidance goals with solution-focused and problem-focused coaching questions

“…perceived closeness to solving one's problem). A follow-up study by Grant (2012) replicated these findings in a randomised, experimental design using Australian participants, and Neipp, Beyebach, Nuñez, and Martínez-González (2015) replicated those findings in a Spanish student population.…”

“…Overall, the current findings make an important contribution to the emerging empirical evidence base for the effectiveness of SF coaching questions, replicating and extending previous research by Grant and O'Connor (2010), Grant (2012), Theeboom et al (2015) and Neipp et al (2015). This is an important point given the high level of current concern about the lack of replication of findings in psychology (Bohannon, 2015), and this is one area where such research can make a contribution to the broader psychological enterprise.…”

Obstacles vs. Resources - Comparing the Effects of a Problem-Focused, Solution-Focused and Combined Approach on Perceived Goal Attainability and Commitment

“…In a cross-cultural replication using the same procedure, variables and measures, Neipp et al (2016) also found that SF questions were more effective than PF counterparts in enhancing perceived self-efficacy and goal approach and in reducing negative affect. Effect size estimates were again not provided by the authors but these can be calculated using their data.…”

The Effect of Solution-Focused Group Counseling with Psychological Counselor Candidates on Solution-Focused Tendency and Satisfaction with Life

“…Hosseinpour et al (2016) determined that solution-focused thinking is effective in individuals adapting to various situations. Neipp et al (2015) found an increase in university students' positive affection, selfefficacy, and ability to reach their goals after answering solution-focused questions.…”