The Cognitive Underpinnings of Multiply-Constrained Problem Solving

• DOI: 10.3390/jintelligence9010007
• Publication Date: 2021-02-01T10:16:28Z
• Authors: Derek M. Ellis; Matthew K. Robison; Gene A. Brewer
• Keywords: Creative problem-solving; Constrained optimization problem

Individuals encounter problems daily wherein varying numbers of constraints require delimitation memory to target goal-satisfying information. Multiply-constrained problems, such as the compound remote associates, are commonly used study this type problem solving. Since their development, multiply-constrained have been theoretically and empirically related creative thinking, analytical solving, insight a multitude other cognitive abilities. In present study, we evaluated range abilities previously associated with solving assess common versus unique predictive variance (i.e., working memory, attention control, episodic semantic fluid crystallized intelligence). Additionally, sought determine whether problem-solving ability self-reported strategy adoption (analytical or insightful) were task specific general through use novel tasks (TriBond Location Bond). Performance across these was shown be domain general, solutions derived insightful strategies more often correct than those strategies, intelligence sole that provided value after accounting for all