In terms of creativity, what does ‘divergent thinking’ refer to?

Correct option is B

Divergent thinking is a cognitive process that involves generating multiple unique solutions to a given problem. It is non-linear, spontaneous, and creative, enabling individuals to explore various possibilities rather than a single correct answer.

Coined by J.P. Guilford (1956), divergent thinking is a key aspect of creativity and is characterized by:
Fluency (producing many ideas).
Flexibility (thinking in different directions).
Originality (creating novel ideas).
Elaboration (developing ideas further).

Thus, divergent thinking refers to generating multiple possible solutions from a single point, making option (2) the correct answer.

Information Booster:
Divergent thinking is linked to right-brain activity, associated with creativity and imagination.
The relationship between creativity and intelligence is complex and has been widely debated in psychology. Here are the key points to understand their connection:

1. Threshold Theory:
Suggests that a moderate level of intelligence (IQ around 120) is necessary for high creativity, but beyond this threshold, intelligence and creativity are not strongly correlated.
In other words, high creativity requires a baseline level of intelligence, but once that threshold is met, other factors (e.g., personality, environment) become more influential.

2. Distinct but Related Constructs:
Intelligence: Focuses on logical reasoning, problem-solving, and the ability to acquire and apply knowledge (convergent thinking).
Creativity: Involves originality, flexibility, and the ability to generate novel and useful ideas (divergent thinking).
While they overlap in cognitive processes (e.g., working memory, cognitive flexibility), they are not the same.

3. Creativity as a Subset of Intelligence:
Some theorists, like J.P. Guilford, argue that creativity is a component of intelligence, particularly through divergent thinking (e.g., generating multiple solutions to a problem).
Guilford's Structure of Intellect (SI) model identifies creativity as involving abilities like fluency, flexibility, originality, and elaboration.

4. Beyond IQ:
Creativity often involves non-cognitive factors such as personality traits (e.g., openness to experience), motivation, and environmental influences.
Intelligence, as measured by IQ tests, does not fully capture creative potential.

5. Empirical Findings:
Low to Moderate Correlation: Studies show a weak to moderate positive correlation between intelligence and creativity, especially at lower IQ levels.
Domain-Specific: The relationship may vary depending on the domain (e.g., artistic vs. scientific creativity).