Critical Moments, the Creative Process and Research Motivation. A Discussion of Results Based on Empirical Studies of Scientists

In: International social science journal: ISSJ, Band 25, Heft 1-2, S. 190-204

Abstract

Studies in the psychol of sci & sci'ts are drawn upon & the findings from 3 of the above authors' studies of critical moments in res work, the creative process & motivation for res are discussed. Details of these studies are found in B. Nordbeck, "Critical Moments and the Choice of Problems in Research Work. A Study of Scientists in Biology," U of Lund, Sweden, Dept of Psychol, mimeo, 1972; B. Nordbeck & S. M. Maini, "Critical Moments in Research Work. A Study of Research Workers in the Behavioral Sciences," Psychological Research Bulletin, Lund U, 1972, 12, 10; & S. M. Maini, "Creative and Critical Moments and Processes as Reported by a Group of 'Scientists at Work'," Lund U, Dept of Psychol, mimeo, 1971. Here, some general aspects are discussed. Eg, all moments experienced as critical & of special importance for res involved motivational changes, either positive or negative. Positive changes related to the identification & selection of a problem, informal COMM, emergence of new ideas & insights; negative ones involved a decrease in motivation & cognitive stagnation & were characterized by lack of competent supervision, failure of method, & diffculties which restricted the problem under study. A strong emotional reaction seemed to be one of the conditions for impending cognitive restructuring. 5 phases were found in the creative process: initial, intensive activity; pre-idea; idea-cognition; post-idea. Cognitive aspects of these phases are discussed. Future res should focus on the importance of intellectual stimulation & the need for novelty as motivational factors, & their structure & genesis. Diff exp'al techniques should be utilized with a view toward only increasing empirical knowledge but structuring a theory in this field. 1 Figure. M. Maxfield.