COG - Solving Problems and Making Decisions Lesson

Learning Targets:

• Describe the cognitive techniques that aid problem-solving and the barriers that impede it.
• Define intuition and discuss how availability and representativeness heuristics shape our decisions and judgments.
• Discuss how overconfidence, belief perseverance, and framing impact our decisions and judgments.
• Illustrate how effective thinkers utilize intuition.

Courtesy of the AP psychology course and exam description, effective fall 2024. (n.d.). Links to an external site.

Executive Function

Executive functions are like our brains' air traffic control system, guiding us through our daily tasks and helping us make decisions. Imagine trying to study for a big test while also juggling sports practice, extracurricular activities, and social engagements. Strong executive functions allow us to prioritize our time effectively, set goals, manage our schedules, and resist distractions. Without these cognitive processes, we may struggle to stay organized, complete assignments on time, or think critically when faced with complex problems. By honing our executive functions, we can enhance our problem-solving skills, decision-making abilities, and overall academic performance in high school.

Problem-Solving

Problem-solving is a crucial aspect of our daily lives, requiring us to think and act strategically to achieve a desired outcome. The problem-solving process begins with identifying the issue and devising a plan to address it. This often involves considering different strategies based on the nature of the problem and the time available for resolution. For example, when faced with the challenge of planning a surprise birthday party for a friend while keeping it a secret and coordinating all the details without their knowledge.

One method of problem-solving is trial and error, where solutions are discovered by trying different approaches until the correct one is found. An everyday example of trial and error is attempting to fix a malfunctioning electronic device by testing various troubleshooting methods until it functions properly. This approach can be time-consuming but can lead to success through persistence and experimentation.

Another problem-solving technique is the use of algorithms, which are systematic procedures that guarantee a solution when followed correctly. An example of an algorithm is using a recipe to bake a cake, where each step must be executed in the correct order to achieve the desired outcome. Algorithms are valuable for solving complex problems that require a structured approach.

In certain situations, we rely on heuristics, which are mental shortcuts or simplified strategies that enable us to make quick decisions and solve problems efficiently. Unlike algorithms, heuristics prioritize speed over precision and are prone to errors. An illustration of a heuristic is making a decision based on a single prominent feature rather than considering all available information.

Lastly, insight is a problem-solving approach that involves sudden realization or understanding of a solution without conscious reasoning. This form of problem-solving is characterized by moments of clarity or "aha" experiences. An example of insight is when a person solves a challenging puzzle by suddenly recognizing the hidden pattern or connection that leads to the solution. Insight allows us to break through mental barriers and find innovative solutions to complex problems.

Take a moment to review the information below for some of the most common problem-solving strategies.

Explore each section in the tabs below to learn more.

 

Hurdles to Problem-Solving

Sometimes our cognitive tendencies can impede the problem-solving process. One common barrier is confirmation bias, where individuals tend to seek out information that confirms their existing beliefs rather than considering evidence that contradicts them. For example, if someone believes that all teenagers are rebellious, they may only notice and remember instances supporting this belief while ignoring behaviors against it.

Another obstacle to problem-solving is fixation, which is the tendency to become stuck on a particular perspective or approach to a problem. For instance, if students always use the same study method for all subjects, they may struggle to adapt their approach when faced with a new and challenging topic. Similarly, a mental set can hinder problem-solving by causing individuals to rely on strategies that have been successful in the past, even if they are not suitable for the current problem at hand. Just as our perceptual sets influence how we perceive the world, our mental sets can limit our ability to think flexibly and creatively when solving problems. For example, imagine a marketing team that has always relied on traditional advertising methods, such as print ads and TV commercials, to promote their products. Despite changes in consumer behavior and the rise of digital marketing channels, the team continues to approach every new product launch with the same old strategies that have worked for them in the past.

Cognitive processes, such as the gambler's fallacy and sunk-cost fallacy, can sometimes impede effective problem-solving. The gambler's fallacy occurs when someone believes past outcomes influence future probabilities, leading to risky decision-making. On the other hand, the sunk-cost fallacy involves sticking to a course of action because of the investments made, even if it no longer serves the best interests. Recognizing and overcoming these cognitive biases is essential for honing problem-solving skills and making sound judgments.

Making Decisions: Intuition and Heuristics in Psychology

Intuition plays a significant role in our decision-making processes. It refers to understanding or knowing something immediately without conscious reasoning. When faced with complex choices or judgments, our minds often rely on intuition, which involves fast, automatic, unreasoned feelings and thoughts. Two common mental shortcuts that influence our decisions are availability and representativeness heuristics. Availability heuristic occurs when we base our judgment on how easily we can bring instances to mind. For example, if we hear about a recent plane crash, we might overestimate the likelihood of such an event occurring again. Representativeness heuristic involves categorizing things based on their similarity to a typical case. An example would be assuming someone is a librarian because they fit the stereotype, even if the person's actual characteristics are unknown. These heuristics demonstrate how intuition shapes our perceptions and influences our choices, often without conscious awareness.

Understanding Overconfidence in Decision-Making

Sometimes we are more confident than correct. Overconfidence is the tendency to overestimate the accuracy of our knowledge and judgments. Overconfidence leads us to succumb to the planning fallacy, where we underestimate the time needed to complete a task and end up running late or missing deadlines. For example, thinking you can finish a research paper in one night when, in reality, it takes much longer. Another consequence is the sunk cost fallacy, where we continue investing in a project or idea even if it's not working out simply because we've invested time or resources. An example is ongoing with a failing business venture because you've already invested money. However, overconfidence can also have its benefits. Believing in your decisions and having confidence can lead to a more positive outlook on life and a happier mindset overall.

The Impact of Belief Perseverance on Decision-Making

Belief perseverance is our natural inclination to maintain our beliefs even when faced with contradicting evidence. This cognitive bias can significantly influence our decisions and judgments, leading us to overlook or dismiss information that challenges our existing beliefs. For example, imagine a person who strongly believes in a particular political ideology despite encountering compelling evidence that suggests an alternative perspective. Instead of critically evaluating this new information, they may reject it outright and continue to uphold their original beliefs. To combat belief perseverance, it is crucial to actively seek out and consider opposing viewpoints, as this can help individuals adopt a more balanced and informed perspective. Overcoming belief perseverance requires a willingness to reassess and adjust our beliefs based on credible evidence rather than stubbornly clinging to outdated or inaccurate notions.

Framing in Shaping Decisions and Judgments

Regarding decision-making and judgments, framing plays a significant role in influencing our perceptions and choices. Framing refers to how we present information, impacting how we interpret and respond to it. For example, in retail sales, a store might advertise a product as "50% off" rather than "50% more savings." The framing of the discount can lead consumers to perceive the offer more positively and be more inclined to make a purchase. This demonstrates how framing can be used as a persuasive tool in influencing consumer behavior and decision-making processes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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