divergent thinking

creative thinking in which an individual solves a problem or reaches a decision using strategies that deviate from commonly used or previously taught strategies. This term is often used synonymously with lateral thinking. Compare convergent thinking. [defined in 1967 by Joy Paul Guilford]

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Psychology term of the day

February 21st 2025

participants’ rights

in a study approved by an institutional review board, a set of conditions relating to participants in the study and their role in the research. Participants normally should be informed about the purpose of the study (but see deception research), its procedures (i.e., what specifically is expected to occur) and the associated costs and benefits; that their data from the study will be kept confidential; whom they can contact if they have any concerns about the study; and that they can leave the study at any time without penalty. Also called subjects’ rights. See also informed consent; research ethics.