When a problem’s representation is changed to assist in problem-solving, the process of __ has occurred. A fixation
B restructuring
C reorganizing
D means-end analysis
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: B. Restructuring
Explanation (300 words):
In cognitive psychology, restructuring refers to the mental process of changing the representation of a problem to arrive at a solution. This concept is central to understanding how insight occurs during problem-solving. When individuals encounter a challenging problem, they may initially approach it with a particular mindset or strategy that fails to yield results. However, by changing how they perceive or mentally structure the problem, they often experience a breakthrough — an “aha!” moment — which leads to the solution.
This concept was extensively studied by Gestalt psychologists, such as Karl Duncker and Wolfgang Köhler, who emphasized that problem-solving often involves seeing the problem in a new way. For example, in the famous candle problem, participants are asked to fix a candle to a wall so it doesn’t drip wax on the table below. The solution involves using a matchbox as a platform — but many fail initially because they don’t think of the matchbox as anything other than a container. Those who solve it do so by restructuring their understanding of the matchbox’s function.
Let’s briefly define the incorrect options:
- A. Fixation is the opposite of restructuring; it’s a mental block where a person is stuck in a particular way of thinking, unable to see the problem differently.
- C. Reorganizing sounds similar but is not the specific cognitive process described in problem-solving theory.
- D. Means-end analysis is a strategy that involves breaking down the problem into smaller subgoals to reduce the difference between the current state and the goal state — not necessarily changing the problem’s representation.
Therefore, when a person overcomes mental blocks and suddenly sees the problem in a new light, allowing for a solution, the process of restructuring has taken place.