Response to Heppner, Witty, and Dixon

Abstract

This reaction evaluates Heppner and his colleagues' extensive research program on problem-solving appraisal. The research program is assessed as inspiring, high-level scholarship and a unique contribution to counseling psychology. The theoretical foundations of the Problem Solving Inventory (PSI) and the strength of the data are very impressive and significant. This article makes recommendations on reporting the PSI diversity data, the need for research on gender role variables, and the clinical and programmatic uses of the PSI. The author believes problem-solving appraisal is uniquely qualified to promote primary prevention and makes suggestions to promote future research and make problem-solving appraisal available to the general public.