The Emotional Dimensions of the Problem-Solving Process

Abstract

Problem-solving procedures and processes are a major concern to people working with groups and organizations. Some attention has been paid to the phases and steps involved. The authors report that predictable affec tive responses are evoked during each phase of a generic problem-solving process: needs assessment (hopeful, energetic); goal setting (confusion, dissatisfaction); action planning (involvement, accomplishment); im plementation (stage fright, joy); evaluation (pride, sadness). There are also particular interventions that a consultant or leader can make that are helpful in relation to the task and affective climate; these vary from phase to phase relative to the affective climate.