Behavioral Problem-Solving Strategies

Behavioral Problem-Solving Strategies

Skinner described thinking, decision-making, problem-solving, and self-awareness as behaviors subject to the same principles as overt actions. Using this framework, analyze a recent experience where you engaged in “thinking” or “problem-solving.”

1. Describe the situation and the covert or overt behaviors involved.
2. Identify any environmental manipulations or techniques (e.g., making lists, shuffling stimuli, asking questions) that influenced your behavior.
3. Reflect on how understanding the behavioral principles behind your actions (e.g., reinforcement, rules, contingencies) might improve your future decision-making or self-awareness.

readings :

1. Science and Human Behavior:  Chapter 16 & Chapter 18
2. About Behaviorism: Chapter 7 & 8

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APA

Behavioral Problem-Solving Strategies

Situation Description:

Recently, I faced a challenging task at work where I needed to develop a project proposal for a client. The problem was multifaceted, involving client expectations, budget constraints, and tight deadlines. The task required a balance of creative thinking and analytical decision-making. This was a “thinking” and “problem-solving” experience that involved both covert (internal) and overt (external) behaviors.

Covert and Overt Behaviors Involved:

• Covert Behaviors:

  • Thinking: I mentally reviewed the client’s requirements, the budget, and the possible strategies that could meet both. This was an internal process where I weighed pros and cons.

  • Decision-Making: I internally deliberated on which strategies were most feasible and aligned with the client’s needs while staying within the budget.

  • Problem-Solving: I mentally manipulated various options, predicting possible outcomes for each, and tried to avoid common pitfalls.

• Overt Behaviors:

  • Writing: I created a draft outline of the proposal, organized ideas, and began writing detailed sections.

  • Collaborating: I asked for feedback from a colleague, discussing my thoughts out loud to refine the proposal. This was a clear overt action that helped me validate my internal decision-making.

  • Adjusting the proposal: Based on the feedback, I revised the document and made adjustments to address any issues or areas of improvement.

Environmental Manipulations or Techniques Influencing My Behavior:

• Making Lists: To organize my thoughts and ensure no aspects of the proposal were overlooked, I made lists of the client’s requirements, constraints, and priorities. This helped break down the problem into smaller, manageable parts, leading to clearer thinking and decision-making.

• Shuffling Stimuli: I changed my environment by taking short breaks during writing sessions to prevent mental fatigue. Moving to different spaces in my workspace allowed me to refresh my perspective, aiding my problem-solving process.

• Asking Questions: I regularly asked myself and others questions to clarify uncertainties, such as “What are the client’s must-have features?” and “What alternatives can be proposed within the budget?” This questioning technique led to more refined solutions.

Reflection on Behavioral Principles Behind My Actions:

• Reinforcement: In Skinner’s terms, I reinforced my own behavior through self-monitoring and rewarding myself upon completing certain sections of the proposal. After completing a section of…