Problem-Solving Therapy (PST) addresses an underappreciated driver of academic problems and skills: actual, real-world problems that therapy doesn't directly resolve.
The Problem-Solving Model of Academic Problems and Skills
PST proposes that academic problems and skills often reflects deficits in problem-solving ability — making real stressors feel unsolvable, which drives hopelessness and academic problems and skills.
The Problem-Solving Process for Academic Problems and Skills
- Problem orientation: Recognize problems as solvable, not catastrophic
- Problem definition: Clearly define what you're actually dealing with
- Generate alternatives: Brainstorm multiple possible responses
- Decision-making: Evaluate options against values and feasibility
- Implementation: Carry out the solution
- Evaluation: Assess results and adjust
When PST Is Especially Helpful for Academic Problems and Skills
PST is particularly effective when academic problems and skills is driven by or worsened by concrete life stressors — financial problems, relationship conflicts, work challenges. Addressing these directly often produces significant academic problems and skills relief.