Problem-Solving Appraisal and Human Adjustment A Review of 20 Years of Research Using the Problem Solving Inventory

• Published in: The Counseling psychologist Vol. 32; no. 3; pp. 344 - 428
• Main Authors: Heppner, P. Paul, Witty, Thomas E., Dixon, Wayne A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: College Park SAGE Publications 01.05.2004; Sage Publications; SAGE PUBLICATIONS, INC
• Subjects: Adjustment; Appraisal; Coping; Counseling Psychology; Futures (of Society); History; Life Satisfaction; Literature reviews; Measures (Individuals); Physical Health; Problem Solving; Problem Solving Inventory; Psychological Studies
• ISSN: 0011-0000; 1552-3861
• DOI: 10.1177/0011000003262793

This article reviews and synthesizes more than 120 studies from 20 years (1982-2002) of research that has examined problem-solving appraisal as measured by the Problem Solving Inventory (PSI). The goals of the article are fourfold: (a) introduce the construct of problem-solving appraisal and the PSI within the applied problem-solving literature, (b) summarize and integrate existing findings using the PSI within and across four major content areas (psychological adjustment, physical health, coping, and educational and vocational issues), (c) identify promising research directions that might stimulate future research and promote theory development, and (d) identify implications for practitioners in the helping professions. We conclude that problem-solving appraisal as measured by the PSI is a useful psychological construct with implications for theory and many applications to build on peoples' strengths to enhance their life satisfaction and well-being.