Problem vs Solution Focussed Coaching

Question 1

What are the two categories of coaching?

Answer 1

Coaching can be categorized into problem-focused coaching (PFC) and solution-focused coaching (SFC).

PFC emphasizes analyzing problems, while SFC focuses on constructing solutions.

Question 2

Which coaching approach leads to greater increases in goal progression?

Answer 2

Solution-focused coaching (SFC) leads to significantly greater increases in goal progression compared to problem-focused coaching (PFC).

In the study, goal approach increased by 16% in the SFC group vs. 5.94% in the PFC group.

Question 3

What are the effects of problem-focused coaching (PFC)?

Answer 3

Problem-focused coaching (PFC) is associated with reduced negative affect and increased self-efficacy but does not significantly improve problem understanding or positive affect.

PFC aligns with Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which focuses on analyzing dysfunctional thought patterns.

Question 4

What are the benefits of solution-focused coaching (SFC)?

Answer 4

This type of coaching
- improves positive affect
- reduces negative affect
- enhances self-efficacy and
- Increases understanding of the problem.

Question 5

What did the study find about the impact of both coaching approaches on goal progression?

Answer 5

The study found that both coaching approaches improved goal progression, but SFC had a significantly greater impact.

This challenges the assumption that problem analysis is necessary for goal achievement.

Question 6

What is a key recommendation for coaches based on the study?

Answer 6

Coaches should blend problem-focused and solution-focused approaches, using PFC when necessary but primarily focusing on solutions.

Excessive focus on problems can reinforce negative emotions and hinder motivation.

Question 7

What type of therapy is SFC inspired by?

Answer 7

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and focuses on the solution rather than the problem.

Question 8

What type of questions does SFC focus on?

Answer 8

‘How to’ rather than ‘why’ questions.

Question 9

Why is a solution-focused approach often preferred over a problem-focused one in coaching?

Answer 9

Because it enhances positive affect, supports goal progression, and improves action planning.

Question 10

What role does positive affect (PA) play in coaching?

Answer 10

It improves mood and supports effective action planning.

Question 11

Why is a positive coaching relationship important?

Answer 11

It fosters positive affect, which motivates clients and enhances coaching outcomes.

Question 12

Is feeling good enough for effective coaching outcomes?

Answer 12

No—feeling good must be combined with clear goal setting.

Question 13

What combination produces the best coaching outcomes?

Answer 13

Positive affect + solution-focused approach (PA+SF) leads to better self-efficacy, goal progression, and action planning.

Question 14

Does one coaching technique work for all issues or goals?

Answer 14

No—effective coaching techniques depend on the nature of the issue or goal.

Question 15

What is the relationship between self-reflection and happiness?

Answer 15

Self-reflection is positively associated with happiness when other factors are controlled.

Question 16

What is a potential downside of self-reflection?

Answer 16

It can lead to rumination, which is negatively related to happiness.

Question 17

How does insight gained from reflection affect well-being?

Answer 17

Insight improves self-regulation, which in turn enhances well-being.

Question 18

Why is solution-focused coaching considered a strong foundation?

Answer 18

Because it encourages positive affect, reduces rumination, and promotes effective self-regulation and goal achievement.

Question 19

What is the main focus of solution-focused coaching?

Answer 19

Identifying solutions, strengths, and desired future outcomes.

Question 20

What is the main focus of problem-focused coaching?

Answer 20

Exploring and analysing the nature and causes of the client’s problems.

Question 21

How does solution-focused coaching approach change?

Answer 21

By building on what is already working and setting forward-looking, achievable goals.

Question 22

How does problem-focused coaching approach change?

Answer 22

By gaining insight into the problem’s root causes and resolving underlying issues.

Question 23

What kinds of questions are typical in solution-focused coaching?

Answer 23

Questions about goals, exceptions to the problem, and what success would look like.

Question 24

What kinds of questions are typical in problem-focused coaching?

Answer 24

Questions about the origins, triggers, and impact of the problem.

Question 25

Which coaching approach is more future-oriented?

Answer 25

Solution-focused coaching.

Question 26

Which coaching approach spends more time understanding past experiences?

Answer 26

Problem-focused coaching.

Question 27

When might a coach choose a problem-focused approach?

Answer 27

When a client needs to understand persistent barriers or complex emotional patterns.

Question 28

When might a coach choose a solution-focused approach?

Answer 28

When a client is ready to move forward and build on existing resources.

Question 29

What is problem-focused coaching?

Answer 29

Problem-focused coaching is a coaching approach that explores the nature, origins, and dynamics of the client’s problems in order to gain understanding and insight, with the aim of finding effective strategies for resolution or management.

Question 30

What is solution-focused coaching?

Answer 30

Solution-focused coaching is a forward-looking coaching approach that helps clients identify and build on their strengths, resources, and past successes to create desired outcomes. It emphasises what is working, what is wanted, and how to get there, rather than analysing problems in depth.