Creative problem solving involves the generation and application of novel approaches to complex problems. The cognitive process of thinking creatively can be divided into divergent and convergent thinking abilities. Convergent thinking is focused on narrowing possibilities to a workable solution. On the other hand, divergent thinking assesses the ability to generate multiple ideas or solutions to a problem. While deficits in traditional neuropsychological domains (memory, attention, language) have been well documented, little is known about the consequences of traumatic brain injury (TBI) on these creative problem solving abilities. The aim of the current study was to determine the effects of TBI on convergent and divergent thinking. We administered tests of creative divergent problem solving (Abbreviated Torrance Test for Adults, Alternate Uses Task), creative convergent problem solving (Remote Associate Task), and a battery of neuropsychological tests to individuals with moderate-severe TBI (n=29) and healthy comparisons (HC) (n=20). The battery included: the California Verbal Learning Test to measure verbal learning and memory, the processing speed index of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale as a measure of processing speed, the Trail Making Test to measure executive functioning and task switching, and the Brief Symptoms Inventory (BSI) to measure psychological wellbeing. Participants with TBI performed significantly below HCs on all tasks except for the creative divergent problem solving tasks.  Our findings suggest that following moderate-to-severe TBI, convergent thinking can be compromised while divergent thinking abilities might be spared. Preserved divergent thinking abilities following TBI may be leveraged in educational, occupational, and rehabilitation settings.

Creative Convergent and Divergent Thinking Abilities Following Traumatic Brain Injury