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In general, people try to solve their problems in one of four ways. These are known
as problem solving styles. You will probably use a variety of styles, but is still a good
idea to know which style you prefer and understand its advantages and
disadvantages.
To understand what kind of problem solver you are, complete the following
questionnaire.
Rank the words or phrases that are listed under each statement. Use 1 for the most
preferred and 4 for the least preferred. There are no right or wrong answers!
1
_____ c) solving most problems comes down to figuring out the cause-
and –effect relationships
_____ d) in the real world, you often have to solve a problem without a
complete understanding of what has caused it
To see what your style is, write the scores from the questions above next to the
corresponding letters in the following section. Your lowest score on the survey
indicates your preferred style. Each of us has some of the traits of each style,
although one style usually is dominant and preferred.
Total: ______ (D) Total: ______ (P) Total: ______ (De) Total: ______ (C)
2
SCORES:
Interested in theories
Seeks lot of background information
Learns from relationships to other situations
Values detachment from issues (tries to be very objective)
Relates to others by giving and getting information
Needs to guard against indecision and impracticality (always waiting for more
information)
Interested in results
Finds a solution by trying one out
Wants to achieve success without help from others
Trusts his or her instincts
Good in crisis situations and when there is no time for analysis
Needs to guard against impulsiveness and uncooperativeness