problems that may occur and suggest solution alternatives plausible for each problem
identified. The solutions found could be discussions with 6 th graders on how they adapted
and what difficulties they encountered, getting to know the teachers of the 5 th grade,
inviting some of them to current class in order to talk about their subject matters,
attending 5th grade classes, visiting the classrooms, etc.
The application phase involves the counsellor strengthening each progress made by pupils
in applying problem-solving skills to natural contexts. It is the counsellor who will
mediate problems and conflicts children encounter in real situations, as well as teach
children to apply the skills learned in the first phases to concrete life situations. Pupils are
encouraged to use their problem solving abilities in daily activities with the support of
teachers. Each pupil is responsible for practicing one skill learned at least once a week.
The counsellor is in charge with monitoring the pupils’ progress for at least a school year.
Efficiency studies (Elliot, 1987; Rixon, 1999) for this programme have highlighted a
better awareness of stress sources pupils come in contact with and a more frequent
application of coping methods to problem solving. The effects were maintained 4 years
after the application of the programme. The limits of the programme were identified at
the level of methods to assess pupils’ progress in the acquisition of skills developed
through the programme.
Method evaluation
Problem solving has a wide applicability. According to the complexity of the problem
and the formulation of the case, it can be used either as a unique intervention method or
as a complementary method in an intervention package.
Becoming aware of the advantages and disadvantages of the method facilitates its
efficient selection and application, function of the target group’s or person’s
characteristics (Mueser, 1998).
Advantages:
- applicable to varied contexts: individually, pupil group, family;
- efficient as primary intervention in emotional or behaviour disorders;
- beneficial in dealing with problems related to anger, assertiveness, social
anxiety, in developing job hunting skills, in couple counselling.