Conceptual blockbusting- chap2 perceptual blocks

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Perceptual blocks are obstacles that prevent the problem-solver from clearly perceiving either the problem itself or the information needed to solve the problem.

Mainly six kinds:

1) Detecting what you expect--stereotyping

  Stereotyping and labeling are extremely prevalent and effective perceptual blcoks, however, you cannot see clearly if you are controlled by preconceptions. Perceptual setereotyping is not all bad, since it also allows people to complete incomplete data. However, it can be a serious handicap to perceiving new combinations.

Unfortunately, stereotyping is inherent in the working of the mind. We usually remember information in context, and the context goes into our memory along with the information. When we later recall the information for use in problem-solving, the residual information and feelings from the original context tend to accompany it.

2)  Difficulty in isolating the problem

Problem we face may be obscured by either inadequate clues or misleading information. Proper problem-identification is of extreme importance in problem-solving. If the problem is not properly isolated, it will not be properly solved. Problem statements are often literally laced with answers. If you are working as a professional problem-solver, you must continually be alert to properly perceive the problem. The client, patient, customer, etc. may not always see the problem clearly, and the problem-solver is sometimes able to score heavily be curing the difficulties in a simpler manner through a clearer perception of what the problem is really is.

People, easpecially people in organizations, tend to work on getting rid of symptoms, rather than solving the real problems.

Difficulty is isolating the problem is often due to the tendency to spend a minimum of effort on problem definition in order to get to the important matter of solving it. Inadequately defining the problem is a tendency that is downright foolish on an important and extensive problem-solving task. A relatively small time spent in carefully isolating and defining the problem can be extremely valuable both in illuminating possible simple solutions and in ensuring that a great deal of effort is not spent only to find that the difficulties still exits--perhaps in event greater magnitude.

 3)  Tendency to delimit the problem area poorly

It is also difficult to avoid delimiting the problem too closely by imposing too many constraints upon it. The constraint is often unconsciouly in the mind of the problem-solver, even though it is not in the definition of the problem at all. THe overly strict limits are a block in the mind of the solver.

Example: Nine-dot puzzle

Just as a solution is sensitive to the proper isolation of the problem, it is also sensitive to proper limitation. The framing of a problem has great influence on the solution of it. A problem statement which is too limited inhibits creative ability.

4) Inability to see the problem from various viewpoints

It is often difficult to see a problem from the viewpoint of all of the interests and parties involved. However, considerations of such view-points not only leads to a better solution to the problem, in that it pleases more interests and individuals, but it is also extremely helpful in conceptualizing. Most problem solutions effect people other than the solver, and their interests must be considered.

Vertical thinking begins with a single concept and then proceeds with that concept until a solution is reached.

Lateral thinking refers to thinking that generates alternative ways of seeing a problem before seeking a solution.

Vertical thinking is digging the same hole deeper; lateral thinking is trying again elsewhere.

5) Saturation

6) Failure to utilize all sensory inputs

 Problem-solvers need all the help they can get. They should be careful not to neglect any sensory inputs.