Problem Solving and Decision Making Quizzes - Psychology for Public Services

Question 1

Which cognitive bias can lead to a narrow focus on confirming information that supports existing beliefs?

Accepted Answer

Confirmation bias

Answer

Illusion of control

Answer

Hyperbolic discounting

Answer

Framing effect

Question 2

The strategy of dividing a complex problem into more manageable components is termed:

Accepted Answer

Decomposition

Answer

Analysis

Answer

Synthesis

Answer

Evaluation

Question 3

The tendency to rely on easily accessible information, regardless of its accuracy or relevance, is known as:

Accepted Answer

Availability heuristic

Answer

Representative heuristic

Answer

Anchoring bias

Answer

Hindsight bias

Question 4

Which cognitive ability allows for considering diverse perspectives and generating multiple solutions?

Accepted Answer

Cognitive flexibility

Answer

Working memory

Answer

Attention span

Answer

Processing speed

Question 5

The concept that individuals tend to seek information that confirms their existing beliefs is known as:

Accepted Answer

Confirmation bias

Answer

Hindsight bias

Answer

Self-serving bias

Answer

Framing effect

Question 6

Which step is **NOT** a core part of the problem-solving process?

Accepted Answer

Putting the chosen solution into action

Answer

Defining the problem

Answer

Generating and evaluating solutions

Question 7

Which of the following is NOT a stage in John Dewey's Problem-Solving Cycle?

Accepted Answer

Hypothesis Testing

Answer

Problem Identification

Answer

Solution Evaluation

Question 8

When solving problems and making decisions, which ethical principle is essential to consider?

Accepted Answer

Fairness

Answer

Efficiency

Answer

Accuracy

Answer

Speed

Question 9

Which cognitive bias can lead us to estimate the likelihood of events based on how easily they come to mind?

Accepted Answer

Availability heuristic

Answer

Confirmation bias

Answer

Framing effect

Answer

Illusion of control

Question 10

Which decision-making model involves evaluating options systematically using a weighted table or matrix?

Accepted Answer

Rational decision-making model

Answer

Dual-process model

Answer

Bounded rationality model

Answer

Prospect theory

Question 11

Which problem-solving approach emphasizes generating multiple potential solutions and experimenting with different ideas?

Accepted Answer

Trial and error

Answer

Deductive reasoning

Answer

Inductive reasoning

Answer

Means-end analysis

Question 12

Which of the following is NOT an advantage of using heuristics in problem solving?

Accepted Answer

High level of accuracy

Answer

Speed and efficiency

Answer

Ease of application

Answer

Reliability across different situations

Question 13

Which of the following is NOT a commonly used problem-solving technique?

Accepted Answer

Statistical analysis and data modeling

Answer

Brainstorming and idea generation

Answer

Lateral thinking and unconventional approaches

Answer

SWOT analysis for evaluating strengths and weaknesses

Question 14

In a case involving a family facing financial challenges, how can a social worker leverage problem-solving and decision-making skills to assist them effectively?

Accepted Answer

Interview the family to gather details about their financial situation and explore potential solutions.

Answer

Offer financial aid to the family without addressing their underlying financial issues.

Answer

Refer the family to another organization without providing immediate support or guidance.

Question 15

How does the way a problem is understood affect the solutions that are created?

Accepted Answer

It makes it easier or harder to find possible solutions.

Answer

It doesn't affect the solutions that are created.

Answer

It decides how many solutions can be created.

Answer

It doesn't affect how good the solutions are.

Question 16

How do risk and uncertainty influence the time required for decision-making?

Accepted Answer

They increase the time needed for decision-making.

Answer

They reduce the number of viable alternatives.

Answer

They eliminate cognitive biases.

Answer

They always improve the quality of decisions.

Question 17

How does cognitive flexibility help us solve problems and make decisions better?

Accepted Answer

It allows us to think about things in different ways.

Answer

It stops us from being influenced by our own biases.

Answer

It makes problem-solving faster.

Answer

It's only useful for really complicated problems.

Question 18

In public service, when using heuristics for problem-solving and decision-making, which ethical principle is crucial to minimize potential biases?

Accepted Answer

Transparency and accountability

Answer

Avoiding heuristics altogether

Answer

Silencing opposing opinions

Question 19

What is the fundamental distinction between analytical and intuitive approaches to decision-making?

Accepted Answer

Analytical decisions rely on logical reasoning and data, while intuitive decisions are based on instinct and emotion.

Answer

Intuitive decisions are significantly faster than analytical decisions.

Answer

Analytical decisions are inherently more accurate than intuitive decisions.

Answer

Intuitive decisions are only suitable for solving simple problems.

Question 20

Explain the role of metacognition in the problem-solving process.

Accepted Answer

It encompasses all of the above.

Answer

It involves planning, monitoring, and evaluating one's own thought processes.

Answer

It assists in identifying and mitigating cognitive biases.

Answer

It facilitates the generation of unconventional and creative solutions.

Question 21

Describe the concept of functional fixedness and its implications in problem-solving.

Accepted Answer

It refers to the tendency to perceive objects solely in terms of their customary function, which can hinder creative thinking and problem-solving.

Answer

It promotes creative thinking by encouraging individuals to consider unconventional uses for objects.

Answer

It is a problem-solving technique that involves breaking down a problem into smaller, more manageable parts.

Answer

It enhances cognitive abilities and reduces cognitive load during problem-solving.

Question 22

A police officer has been called to a domestic dispute. They need to quickly assess the situation and decide on an appropriate course of action. Which problem-solving strategy would be most appropriate in this scenario?

Accepted Answer

Heuristic

Answer

Algorithm

Answer

Means-ends analysis

Answer

Trial and error

Question 23

A social worker is working with a family experiencing financial hardship. Which of the following is an example of an internal factor influencing their decision-making?

Accepted Answer

The family's belief in their ability to overcome their challenges

Answer

Government funding for social programs

Answer

Availability of local support services

Question 24

A community police officer is working to improve relationships with local residents. Which problem-solving approach would be most effective in fostering trust and cooperation?

Accepted Answer

Collaborative problem solving

Answer

Trial and error

Answer

Means-ends analysis

Answer

Individual problem solving

Question 25

A youth worker is facilitating a discussion about the challenges faced by young people in the community. Which aspect of decision-making is this activity primarily focused on?

Accepted Answer

Group decision-making

Answer

Intuitive decision-making

Answer

Rational decision-making

Answer

Individual decision-making

Question 26

A police detective is investigating a crime scene. Which cognitive skill is critical to identifying relevant evidence and forming a hypothesis?

Accepted Answer

Critical thinking

Answer

Creativity

Answer

Emotional intelligence

Question 27

A social worker is assessing the needs of a client who has experienced trauma. Which of the following is an essential skill for making informed and ethical decisions in this situation?

Accepted Answer

Empathy

Answer

Assertiveness

Answer

Negotiation