Problem-solving therapy (PST) is a cognitive behavioral therapeutic intervention designed to address maladaptive or irrational thoughts, dysregulated or negative emotions, problematic or inconsistent positive behaviors, the inability to solve problems in daily living, or the inability to enhance overall motivation and functioning. PST is best understood by operational definitions of problems, coping, stress, coping responses, and solutions.

A problem in this context is any real or perceived thought, feeling, behavior, or situation that is different from what an individual wants it to be. Problems can be intrapersonal, interpersonal, or environmental in nature. They are normal in daily living, though some problems are predictable, preventable, and solvable. Other problems are unforeseen, are chronic, may seem insurmountable, and could even be life threatening. Thus, although some problems ...

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