Fluid Intelligence and Problem Solving

Doctors solve health problems by diagnosing the ailment and prescribing a cure.  Computer programmers solve work flow and process problems by finding faster and better ways to accomplish tasks digitally.  Farmers solve environmental problems — such as drought or flooding, pests, erosion, nutrient depletion, etc. — in order to maximize their harvest.  Even jobs that may not seem like they require much problem solving (mail carrier; chef; receptionist) do require problem solving in certain situations.  Problem solving is a commonly-used skill needed in most occupations.  This cognitive ability is part of Fluid Intelligence, and it is one of the most important Executive Functions that individuals possess.

Fluid Intelligence is the ability to use reason to come to a logical conclusion when considering an unknown.  That is the essence of problem-solving.  Problem solving involves our capacity to identify and describe a problem that requires a logical conclusion but involves an unknown, and then generate a solution or solutions to fix it.

In 1972, researchers Newell & Simon described problem solving this way: “A person is confronted with a problem when he wants something and does not know immediately what series of actions he can perform to get it.”  We engage in problem solving behaviors when we evaluate possible steps forward and then take action to obtain an outcome.  But problem-solving is actually drawing on a host of other Executive Functioning behaviors.

Other Executive Functions involved in Fluid Intelligence

There are several other cognitive functions involved with Fluid Intelligence including attention control, planning and task initiation.  How does this work?  We need to pay attention to our environment to notice a problem, outline different strategies, and then attempt one of those solutions. Depending on the issue, we might also need to use time management, emotional control or organizational skills.  These are all Executive Functions. Over time, if we can observe our behavior and understanding of the environment through working memory and self-monitoring behaviors, it can also influence our problem solving skills.

There are six core skills that help build fluid intelligence and problem-solving.

• Working memory. Working memory is the part of long-term memory that is available for active information processing, including placement of information into and retrieval of information out of storage.
• Creativity. To be an effective problem solver, you need the ability to brainstorm solutions and think outside the box to arrive at new approaches to longstanding problems.
• Teamwork. Being able to address a group problem or systemic social problem requires collaboration and an ability to work well with others.
• Logical thinking. Diagnosing the cause of a problem and finding the best solution requires analytical skills.  You must be able to follow a logical and methodical process.
• Emotional intelligence.  When dealing with “people problems”, it’s very important to have high emotional intelligence.
• Decision-making skills. Problem-solving and decision-making go together like white on rice. This requires conviction and trust to see a decision through.

So how do we put all this together and learn how to solve problems?  It starts really early in life through play behaviors.  Infants and toddlers, in early stages of development, will engage in cause and effect activities that help them ‘figure out how things work.’  As kids move into their early learning years, problem solving includes learning how to take turns and make small decisions, such as whether to use crayons, markers or paints to draw a picture.  Children learn to brainstorm solutions to simple problems and learn to notice issues when others point them out.

As children reach adolescence, they begin to independently identify problems in many settings, including home, school, work, and friends. They sort out conflicts and decide what steps to take but may seek adult feedback and support to evaluate the potential advantages and disadvantages. Developing good problem solving skills as adults involves generating unique solutions to complex problems and persisting through multiple solutions until a problem resolves.

Even as adults, we can continue to improve our problem-solving skills.  Of course, because it employs so many other skills, it is important to strengthen multiple executive functions in order to improve problem-solving.  But here are some tasks that specifically strengthen problem-solving.

Strengthening Fluid Intelligence by Problem Solving

To strengthen fluid intelligence, the best way is to solve actual problems using a methodical step-by-step approach to a challenge. Here is a recap of the problem-solving steps involving creativity, teamwork, logic, decision-making and EQ.

1. Define the problem. Whether it’s a complex problem or a relatively simple one, it’s important to have a clear understanding of what needs to be solved.  Can’t solve a problem if you’re not sure what the problem is.  When trying to tackle a number of problems, it becomes exponentially harder to do.  And if working on a team, it’s all the more important that every person on the team has a shared understanding of the single problem being addressed.
2. Do your homework. Once there is a clear definition of the problem being solved, do some fact-finding and research regarding the nature of the problem and possible causes. This process might include looking into the causes of similar problems that have been resolved in the past.  Or it could involve creating interview questions to ask those involved in the issue.  Obtaining a better understanding from those who’ve had a similar problem will often shed light on the way forward.
3. Consider possible solutions. After doing some research, it’s time to consider possible solutions. Think about past ways that related problems were solved.  Think outside the box for solutions.  Use creativity and brainstorming.  Consider alternatives – Plan B and Plan C — in case Plan A fails.  Creating contingency plans in order to contain further problems is an important part of finding a viable solution.
4. Make a decision. Once there are a host of possible solutions, narrow down the list to the best solution.  Do this methodically.  Consider consequences, cost, and ability to pivot if the best option fails.  Teams should reach a decision together on the best possible solution.  Make that Plan A.
5. Put Plan A into action. Implement the solution in a planned and deliberate way. Avoid rushing to action.  This can botch the solution and keep you from the intended result.
6. Gather results. Determine if the solution worked and decide if further action is needed.  Decide on a time frame for observation before following up and whether or not changes are needed.

Other Ways to Increase Fluid Intelligence

1. Explore New Things. It is so easy to fall into a routine. Even if you think you are in full control of your mind, routines can make you fall into a kind of trance.  Your brain works on auto-pilot while you drive to work, get your projects done, work on your usual hobbies and past times.  To break out of that rut, find new things. Introduce your mind to different activities, hobbies, and experiences. This jumpstarts the brain into creating fresh synaptic connections.  This increases your “neural plasticity”.
2. Expand your Social Circle. In addition to routines, we also fall into repetitive social patterns.  Our interactions become more and more limited over time.  Our social circle naturally becomes smaller when we leave school, get married, get a job, move into a home, etc.  By continually meeting new people and introducing your brain to new opportunities and environments, this keeps your neural connections growing.  A study in the American Journal of Public Health confirmed that socializing helps prevent memory loss and exercises cognitive skills.
3. Seek Mental Challenges – Like any muscle, our brains need a workout. It is important to challenge our brain, not just learn new things. Without challenge, the brain operates at a lesser degree.  One study by Kuszewski in 2007 found that participants who were given a brain scan while they played a new video game for several weeks increased cortical activity and cortical thickness more than those who did not play the game.  Their brains became more powerful just by learning the new game.  But, when given the same test again on a game that was already familiar to them, there was a decline in both cortical activity and thickness.
4. Take the Hard Way – It is absolutely human nature to seek the path of least resistance; the easy way.  But that is deadly for fluid intelligence. Instead, opt for the tough way to do everything.  That means eschewing technology.  Stop using translation software to avoid actually learning a language.  Stop using GPS to go everywhere instead of using a map or creating a mental map.  Stop using a calculator to do simple calculations.  Add numbers in your mind.  Calculate discounts and tips in your head.  Stop using your phonebook to remember names, special dates and phone numbers.  Try remembering on your own.  These activities flex your fluid intelligence.

By doing all of these things, you can boost your fluid intelligence and keep your brain functioning at a high level for the rest of your life.  This will stave off dementia and keep your mind youthful.  That’s as good a reason as any to welcome problems that need solving.

Quote of the Week
“The significant problems we face cannot be solved at the same level of thinking we were at when we created them.”  Albert Einstein

© 2022, Keren Peters-Atkinson. All rights reserved.