This page will have any particular thoughts and ideas about problem solving. I am currently redoing some powerpoint presentations on this topic. This has reminded me of some of the grey areas in this topic. For one thing is problem solving in OT invariably complex? If so, what makes it like this? Without some complexity in what we do we would complain about a general lack of stimulation. If we are continually solving complex problems then I suspect that we would be burnt out and unable to carry on. I do like Gagne’s identification of 4 types of problems – 3 are ‘well defined’ in that the end point is clear. These are not necessarily easy – it can be difficult to know how to get to the end point. The 4th type is ‘ill defined’ because there is no clear end point so therefore no obvious way forward.
Do the ethical issues also impinge on problem solving? It seems that they do – we respond to cues differently depending on out beliefs and values. A personal morale stance may enable therapists to see situations differently and respond differently.
A thought following the students mid-way assignment. Are problem solving and client centered frameworks diametrically apposed? One comes from scientific, reductionistic approaches, the other from a humanistic framework. This certainly makes it seem that way. However, we are a profession of problem ‘fixers’ so can this be reconciled to also being good ‘negotiaters’.
