The Problem-solving approach to adjustment

Social maladjustment is, to a significant extent, a function of an individual's inability to effectively identify and solve problems of an interpersonal life situation. The Interpersonal Cognitive Problem Solving (ICPS) training approach was developed to enhance social adjustment and interpersonal competence by increasing one's interpersonal problem solving abilities. Emphasis is placed on enhancing the trainee's ability to: (a) generate problem solutions (b) determine suitable means of achieving end goals, while c) recognizing the consequences of alternate strategies. Research results and program evaluation indicate the validity and viability of this approach for children as young as 4 and 5 years of age.