Problem Solving....What is it?

What do you think of when you hear the words "problem solving"?

It's no surprise that some people think about problem solving when they think about school work, especially in the maths and science areas. But problem solving is not just used in schools by students, it is used by everyone, everyday.

The Shape of it

There are two main types of problems. One type involves only you solving the problem or making a decision. Examples are; working out how to spend your pocket money that you’ve been saving for a long time. deciding on an ice cream flavour when there are many favourites to choose from.

The other type of problem involves you and another person, or you and a group of people. It is about working through conflict, solving a problem or making a decision that involves another person or group of people.

Examples are; choosing a video to watch when you and the other person want to watch different ones, your best friend doesn't want you to have anything to do with another kid but you like that person and want to be friendly.

The Size of it

Problems can be big or small. Bigger problems take more time and work to solve.

Solving it

There are some problems you can solve on your own and there are some problems that may need you to get help from another person or from a group of people.

There are also some problems that you can’t solve even after trying your best because these problems may be hard to understand or just too big and out of our control. When facing a problem like this, it’s important that you let a trusted adult know about the hard time you are having.

Last Updated: 11/1/02

Information on this page has been developed by clinical staff, Division of Mental Health, WCH, CYWHS.

Material contained in this publication is of a general nature only and is not nor is it intended to be opinion or advice on any specific medical problem. If you need to talk to someone urgently, please contact the following crisis counselling services. Kids Help Line (24 hour) 1800 55 1800, Life Line (24 hour) 13 1114, Crisis Care 13 1611 (4pm-8am week days - 24 hours from 4pm Fridays to 8am Mondays) SA only. Copyright© CYWHS, Women's and Children's Hospital 2007. Disclaimer. All enquiries about this web site should be directed to info@headroom.net.au About the Headroom Project. Your Online Privacy Web Services by Megalomedia