"The Different Role of Working Memory in Open-Ended Versus Closed-Ended Creative Problem Solving: A Dual-Process Theory" by Wei-Lun Lin & Yunn-Wen Lien

Summary

This research article investigates the distinct roles of working memory in two types of creative problem-solving: open-ended (divergent thinking) and closed-ended (insight problem-solving). The authors hypothesise, based on dual-process theory, that divergent thinking relies more on effortless, associative System 1 processing, while insight problem-solving necessitates resource-demanding, rule-based System 2 processing alongside System 1. Two experiments, utilising both dual-task and individual differences approaches, support this hypothesis by demonstrating that working memory load enhances divergent thinking but hinders insight problem-solving performance. The study aims to reconcile inconsistencies in the creativity literature by highlighting the differing cognitive processes involved in these distinct creative tasks, offering a nuanced understanding of creativity's cognitive underpinnings.