Problem-solving deficits in brain-injured patients: A therapeutic approach

Abstract

We developed a specific problem-solving training (PST) and tested it in a small group study. The primary objective of the PST was to provide patients with techniques enabling them to reduce the complexity of a multistage problem by breaking it down to more manageable portions. Thirty-seven “poor” problem solvers were alternately allocated (i.e. in the sequence of their admission) to either a 6-week, 25-session PST (n = 20) or to a memory training (MT; n = 17) of comparable intensity and duration. Treatment effects were evaluated using standard German intelligence tests, the tower-of-Hanoi puzzle, a specifically designed planning test, and a rating of nine aspects of everyday problem-solving behaviour. Data revealed significant prepost effects of the PST in the planning test scores, in all behavioural ratings, and in some intelligence subtests. In comparison, the same tests indicated only minor improvement of the MT.