Problem Solving Skills

Disclaimer: This information sheet is for education purposes only. Please consult with your doctor or other health professional to make sure this information is right for your child.

What are they?

There are a collection of cognitive, or thinking, skills that are often discussed as a group and often called `executive functions' or `higher level thinking skills'. These skills include problem solving. These skills help people to approach difficult activities, to adjust their approach or behaviour when they are unsuccessful at a task, to respond effectively to unexpected situations and to make decisions. These skills are often affected by acquired brain injury.

What do problems with problem solving look like?

The following list outlines some of the common difficulties that may be seen on an everyday basis that could indicate problems in this area.

• Not being able to work out why something has gone wrong.
• Using trial and error methods rather than logical problem solving.
• Making mistakes repeatedly because they can't grasp what is causing the mistake.
• Not anticipating possible problems associated with certain actions.
• Not being able to generate alternative solutions or approaches when initial attempts don't work.
• Not being able to evaluate choices and decide between them effectively.
• Avoiding or not coping with new situations and new challenges.
• Having trouble generating creative ideas.

What strategies might help?

• Help the child use structured questions to approach new tasks, decision making and problem solving, such as what is the problem?, what are the possible solutions?, what are the pros and cons?, which is the best solution?
• Help the child generate possible solutions, if necessary provide a range of solutions, and help them to evaluate the options. It may be helpful, if appropriate, to have them experience the consequences of the possible solutions.
• Explain mistakes and other events clearly and simply, emphasising the relationship between cause and effect.
• Provide a generic `action plan' for when something unexpected happens, such as `call home', or devise specific plans for specific new situations.
• Rehearse new situations when possible, such as catching the train to a new school, and rehearse emergency action plans.
• Provide choices of activities, topics or ideas rather than leaving tasks open ended.

Who do I see and how is it diagnosed?

Difficulties with memory and new learning following acquired brain injury generally improve gradually over time. These problems, however, may continue in some children. Difficulties with memory, as well as other cognitive difficulties are formally identified by a neuropsychological assessment. A neuropsychologist can help devise compensatory and management strategies that are suitable for each individual child and their cognitive profile. Another health professional who may become involved is the cognitive therapist.

Rehabilitation Department The Children's Hospital at Westmead Cnr Hawkesbury Rd & Hainsworth St, Westmead Locked Bag 4001, Westmead, 2145 Tel: (02) 9845 2132 - Fax: (02) 9845 0685 http://www.chw.edu.au/rehabilitation/