Problem solving and behavior therapy revisited

Over three decades ago, D'Zurilla and Goldfried (1971) published a seminal article delineating a model of problem-solving training geared to enhance social competence and decrease psychological distress. Since that time, a substantial amount of research has been conducted to test various hypotheses that this model has engendered. Much of this research can be categorized into three lines of inquiry: (a) whether a relationship between problem solving and distress exists; (b) whether effective problem solving serves to attenuate the deleterious effects of stressful life events that in general increase the likelihood of experiencing psychological distress; and (c) whether training individuals experiencing a variety of psychological problems and disorders is an effective means by which to decrease their pathology and enhance their overall quality of life. This article provides an overview of this literature and especially highlights the flexible nature of problem-solving therapy with regard to targeted problems and populations, clinical treatment goals, and modes of implementation. Recommendations regarding future research directions are offered.