7.3 Problem Solving - Psychology 2e

Learning Objectives

• Describe problem-solving strategies
• Define algorithm and heuristic
• Explain roadblocks to effective problem-solving and decision-making

Introduction

• People face multiple problems daily
• Problems can be straightforward or complex
• Example: work deadline with a broken printer
• Importance of identifying the problem and applying a strategy

Problem-Solving Strategies

• Problem-Solving Strategy: A plan of action to find a solution
• Examples of strategies:
  • Trial and Error: Trying different solutions until successful
    • Example: Troubleshooting a malfunctioning phone
  • Algorithm: Step-by-step problem-solving formula
    • Example: Instructions for installing software
  • Heuristic: General problem-solving framework or mental shortcut
    • Examples: Working backwards, breaking tasks into steps

Heuristics

• Used under conditions such as information overload or limited decision time
• Working Backwards: Solving by focusing on the end result
• Breaking Task into Steps: Making large tasks manageable

Everyday Connection: Solving Puzzles

• Puzzles improve problem-solving skills
  • Examples: Sudoku, connecting dots, and logic puzzles
• Practice and mental exercises enhance abilities

Pitfalls to Problem Solving

• Not all problems are solved successfully
• Mental Set: Persisting in an approach that is not working
• Functional Fixedness: Inability to see alternative uses for objects
  • Example: Duncker's candle problem
  • Example: Apollo 13 mission problem-solving

Cultural Influence on Functional Fixedness

• Research on cultural effects on problem-solving flexibility
  • Example: Shuar group in Ecuador's use of non-standard object usage

Decision-Making Biases

• Biases affect knowledge and reasoning
• Anchoring Bias: Focus on one piece of information
• Confirmation Bias: Focus on information confirming beliefs
• Hindsight Bias: Belief that events were predictable after they happened
• Representative Bias: Unintentional stereotyping
• Availability Heuristic: Decisions based on readily available information

Summary of Decision Biases

• Anchoring: Focus on initial information
• Confirmation: Confirm existing beliefs
• Hindsight: Events seen as predictable
• Representative: Stereotyping
• Availability: Relying on immediate examples

Link to Learning

• Exercises and puzzles to apply problem-solving and identify biases
• Solutions provided for self-assessment