Essay Example on Problem-Solving in Cognitive Psychology: Exploring Processes & Outcomes

Introduction

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Cognitive Psychology/Problem solving

Problem-solving in cognitive psychology refers to a mental process that entails the discovery, analysis and solves problems existing in human beings. The aim of problem-solving in cognitive psychology is to help in coming up with the best strategy to be used in overcoming an obstacle (Duncker, 1945). In cognitive psychology, there is no specific way of solving problems since every problem is unique, and as a result, the need for the development of unique solutions. Problem-solving in cognitive psychology goes beyond just addressing issues of the brain. The process also entails the strategy of solving every kind of problems in life in a manner that is acceptable (Gilhooly & Murphy, 2005). The tactful use of our brains is what leads to effective solving of problems. Problem-solving in psychology entails various steps and strategies. The essay is a discussion of the steps, strategies and theories into human cognition.

For successful solving of problems in cognitive psychology, several steps have to be followed in a strict manner (Gilhooly & Murphy, 2005). The problem-solving steps are also known as the problem-solving cycle. The steps follow a particular sequence; hence all steps are to be followed similarly. Various individuals tend to skip some of the steps due to their rigidness and repeat the same process severally until a suitable solution is reached. The problem-solving steps are as outlined below.

Identification of the Problem

Identification of the problem is critical in helping develop the best solution. Problem identification may not be as simple as it sounds because various individuals make mistakes during this process, such as identifying the wrong source of the problem. Identifying the wrong source will mean that the individual will have to repeat the cycle severally without the issue being adequately solved. (Newell & Simon, 1972). As a result, problem-solvers need to be very keen and tactful in this step. For instance, when an individual has problems with their studies, it is crucial to identify the root cause resulting in the failures. Identifying the root cause of the problems, such as not allocating adequate time to the subject, will be vital in helping develop a plan towards solving the problem. However, making a general assumption that a particular subject is hard may result in not being able to come up with a suitable plan.

Defining/Understanding the Problem

Defining the problem is vital in the determination of further steps. While describing the problem, it is essential to consider different perspectives to come up with a clear plan. Looking at issues from various perspectives will help develop solutions based on multiple perspectives as well (Newell & Simon, 1972). Using the first example, for instance, the cause of failure in studies has been identified as inadequate time allocation, the reason behind insufficient time allocation needs to be sorted out. Such causes may include working for many hours hence leaving limited study time. Once the problem has been defined, a clear strategy will be formulated.

Formulation of a Strategy

Different problems require unique strategies aimed at solving them. An individual's unique preferences are also vital in ensuring that the best approach is identified (Newell & Simon, 1972). After establishing that inadequate time for studies caused by long working hours is the attributing factor to failing in studies, an effective strategy has to be identified. The problem cannot be solved by simply starting to study or quitting work to study. A clear plan of proper time management has to be drawn. One of the strategies may include allocating less time for tasks that are less important and add up the created time for studies. As a result, there will be adequate time allocated for studies; hence study results may improve.

Organizing Information

The accuracy of the solution also depends on the amount of information available. The hypothetical strategy created may not be able to effectively solve the identified problem (Newell & Simon, 1972). Asking questions such as how much information or how much information is known helps create a background of knowing more about the problem. Gathering of adequate information about the problem may necessitate the redefining the strategy for best results.

Resource Allocation

Resources such as time and money are not limited. Prioritizing the problem will help in determining the amount of resources to be used in solving the problem. The importance of the problem will necessitate more resources being allocated to it. A less critical problem will mean that only a limited amount of resources will be used. For instance, when a business deal is stuck, one has to analyze the problem and determine the amount of resources to be used.

Monitoring and Evaluation

The documentation of the process of the problem is essential. When adequate progress is not being made using the applied strategies, it is crucial to reevaluate and develop some other strategy. Problem-solving cannot be attained in a day, it takes time and a lot of patience to achieve the best results (Newell & Simon, 1972). Evaluation of the results helps in the conclusion of what the best strategy was in solving a given problem.

Strategies in Problem Solving

Various approaches can be used to solve problems more efficiently and effectively. However, heuristic and algorithms are the best strategies to use in cognitive psychology.

Heuristic

A heuristic refers to the rule of thumb. The heuristic is a strategy is an approach that works in solving problems related to decision making. The strategy is not guaranteed to be 100 percent effective; however, it is useful in solving an immediate goal. One key advantage of heuristic is that it helps in solving a problem within the shortest time possible hence reducing cognitive overload (Newell & Simon, 1972). One of the main disadvantages is that the strategy cannot be relied on most of the time since it is not very effective.

Algorithm

An algorithm involves a series of steps aimed at solving a problem. Unlike the heuristic, the algorithm strategy is advantageous as it helps in developing the best solution to a problem. However, some of the steps in an algorithm may not be realistic in solving problems in the daily lives of individuals (Newell & Simon, 1972). The main difference between an algorithm and heuristic is that algorithm entails multiple steps while heuristics do not have any specific steps to be followed.

Barriers to problem-solving

The main obstacles to solving problems are comprised of mental constructs that hinder the abilities of different individuals to solve problems effectively. Researches have been able to identify some of the common barriers to solve problems effectively. Such restrictions include confirmation bias and functional fixedness.

Confirmation bias: Confirmation bias can be defined as the unintentional bias mainly caused by gathering and use of information in a manner that favors a notion has is already perceived (Maier, 1931). Confirmation bias results in the creation of solutions and strategies that may not be very effective in solving a stated problem. Motivation is not an aspect of confirmation bias. The solutions towards solving a problem in confirmation bias are mainly aimed at defending that are important to an individual. Researchers have been able to establish that various professionals also undergo confirmation bias. For instance, professionals from the field of psychology are likely to only believe in studies that affirm their already perceived notions. In the year 1960, research conducted by Peter Wason entailed viewing numbers and then create a hypothesis from the viewed numbers. Findings from the study indicated that the participants only created numbers that would conform to their already existing hypothesis and not disapproving them (Knoblich et al., 1999).

Functional fixedness: functional fixedness is a unique type of mental set and fixation. Functional fixedness was first used in the Maier experiment. Functional fixedness is one aspect of cognitive bias that is seen in our daily lives. Functional fixedness is a fixed design of an object hence preventing an individual from seeing some other deserving functions of an object (Maier, 1931). This type of problem-solving barrier can be easily expressed in ordinary situations. If individuals can only be able to see an object having the ability to solve one primary function other than multiple purposes, then various challenges will be encountered when trying to solve that problem. Common sense can be one of the attributing causes of functional fixedness. It results in the inability of individuals to effectively solve problems because of a narrow way of thinking (Maier, 1931). Functional fixedness affects problem solvers in matters to deal with time. Solving a problem with an individual who already has a fixed mind on something leads to spending more time.

Unnecessary constraints: Unnecessary constraints occur when an individual trying to solve a problem subconsciously puts some boundaries, which in turn leads to further straining. One typical example of unnecessary constraints can be experienced in dot problem (Macias, 2009). Nine dots arranged in a three by three square and a problem solver is connect the dots with not more than four lines. One assumption that the solver creates is that all the dots must be connected without letting any line go outside the box. As a result, solving this problem becomes complicated.

Progress-Monitoring Theory

The progress monitoring theory is a conventional theory used in problem-solving. The theory states that any insight in the form of searching for alternatives in problem-solving can only be sought when the first criterion has failed to reach the minimum distance towards solving a stated goal (Newell & Simon, 1972). The progress monitoring theory is entailed of two significant aspects; maximization heuristic and progress monitoring. In maximization heuristic, the best headway is supposed to be followed in problem-solving. Another element is the criterion failure. A criterion failure acts as a wakeup call in. It helps to reveal that the first selected strategy is not working; hence then need to get an alternative approach that can be important in solving a stated problem. Criterion failure helps in the development of more effective problem-solving strategies. One typical example where progress monitoring theory is applied when trying to solve the four versions of the eight-coin problem (eDev UdO, 2013). Four versions of coins are used whereby coins on the right are comprised of two valid dimensional moves while the ones on the left do not have. Individuals trying to solve the problem on the right will experience criterion failure as opposed to those on the left side. The theory further outlines that progress monitoring of a strategy should be assessed continuously. If the strategy proves to be working slowly, then an alternative strategy should be identified.

Debates in Cognitive Psychology

Various discussions are ongoing about multiple aspects of cognitive psychology. One of the current debates surrounds the mind and body debate. The central question revolves at establishing if the mind is part of the body or is the body part of the mind. If they are distinct in any way, how do they interact and which part is in charge of the other. Another essential debate is on nature versus nurture. This debate is concerned with understanding...