Problem Solving Inventory (PSI)

Heppner, P. P., & Petersen, C. H. (1982). The development and implications of a personal problem solving inventory. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 29(1), 66-75. doi: 10.1037/0022-0167.29.1.66

	Table of Contents
	Description
	History of Use
	References

Description:

Purpose		The PSI was designed to assess how well individuals make decisions, specifically their problem-solving abilities.
Questions		32 items using 6-point ratings
Sub-scales		3 sub-scales: Problem-solving Confidence assesses self-perceived confidence in solving problems. Approach Avoidance Style assesses whether individuals tend to approach or avoid problems. Personal Control assesses elements of self-control.
Domain
Psychometrics
Sample items		I am usually able to think up creative and effective alternatives to solve a problem. (Problem-solving Confidence) When a solution to a problem was unsuccessful, I do not examine why it didn't work. (Approach Avoidance Style) I make snap judgments and later regret them. (Personal Control)

References:

Scale:

Heppner, P. P., & Petersen, C. H. (1982). The development and implications of a personal problem solving inventory. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 29(1), 66-75. doi: 10.1037/0022-0167.29.1.66

Selected Uses:

Heppner, P. P. (2008). Expanding the conceptualization and measurement of applied problem solving and coping: From stages to dimensions to the almost forgotten cultural context. American Psychologist, 63(8), 805-816. doi: 10.1037/0003-066X.63.8.805

Heppner, P. P., Witty, T. E., & Dixon, W. A. (2004). Problem-solving appraisal and human adjustment: A review of 20 years of research using the problem solving inventory. Counseling Psychologist, 32(3), 344-428. doi: 10.1177/0011000003262793

Heppner, P. P., & Baker, C. E. (1997). Applications of the problem solving inventory. Measurement and Evaluation in Counceling Development, 29(4), 229-241.

Largo-Wight, E., Peterson, P. M., & Chen, W. W. (2005). Perceived problem solving, stress, and health among college students. American Journal of Health Behavior, 29(4).

Nezu, A. M. (2004). Problem solving and behavior therapy revisited. Behavior Therapy, 35(1), 1-33. doi: 10.1016/S0005-7894(04)80002-9

Nota, L., Heppner, P. P., Soresi, S., & Heppner, M. (2009). Examining Cultural Validity of the Problem-Solving Inventory (PSI) in Italy. Journal of Career Assessment, 17(4), 478-494. doi: 10.1177/1069072709339490

Phillips, S. D., Pazienza, N. J., & Ferrin, H. H. (1984). Decision making styles and problem-solving appraisal. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 31(4), 497-502. doi: 10.1037/0022-0167.31.4.497

Nota, L., Heppner, P. P., Soresi, S., & Heppner, M. J. (2009). Examining Cultural Validity of the Problem-Solving Inventory (PSI) in Italy. [Article]. Journal of Career Assessment, 17(4), 478-494. doi: 10.1177/1069072709339490

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