Problem-Solving Appraisal and Human Adjustment: a Review of 20 Years of Research Using the Problem Solving Inventory

This article reviews and synthesizes over 120 studies from 20 years of research that has examined problem-solving appraisal as measured by the Problem Solving Inventory (PSI). After introducing the construct of problem-solving appraisal & the PSI within the applied literature, the authors summarize & integrate existing findings using the PSI in 4 major content areas: psychological adjustment (including hopelessness and suicidality), physical health, coping, & educational & vocation issues. They also identify promising research directions along with implications for practitioners. (264 refs)