Understanding how humans think is important to create better tools, education systems, and problem solving solutions that best fit the human experience. Although I think it is important to note the style differences even between specific humans. I want to take some time here to discuss the difference between convergent thinking and divergent thinking – while highlighting the different experiences people have with these types of thinking. These modes of thinking are often discussed in the context of creativity and problem-solving, but they represent fundamentally different cognitive processes that play distinct roles in how we approach problems and generate ideas.
Convergent Thinking: Focused and Analytical
Convergent thinking is a type of thinking that focuses on bringing together information, ideas, or solutions in a structured, logical, and systematic way. The goal of convergent thinking is to identify the single best solution to a problem. It is associated with the ability to narrow down multiple possibilities and focus on one correct or optimal answer. Key terms here would be single best solution, narrowing down information, and focusing on one correct route. In other words, they converge on one solution.
This process is highly analytical and often involves deductive reasoning, similar to “top down processing”. For example, when solving a math problem, a person applies known formulas and steps to arrive at a precise, correct answer. Similarly, convergent thinking is used in situations that require accuracy and precision, such as answering multiple-choice questions or following a set procedure in a scientific experiment. Convergent thinking is often linked to intelligence tests, standardized exams, and technical problem-solving because it requires individuals to apply their knowledge to solve clearly defined problems.
Divergent Thinking: Creative and Open-Ended
Divergent thinking, on the other hand, is a more open-ended and expansive process. It involves generating a wide variety of ideas or solutions in response to a question or problem. Unlike convergent thinking, which seeks a single correct answer, divergent thinking encourages the exploration of multiple possibilities and alternatives. It is closely associated with creativity and innovation, as it allows individuals to think beyond traditional boundaries and come up with novel and unique solutions. Key terms here would be generating multiple possibilities and expanding ideas.
In the creative process, divergent thinking is often seen as essential for generating new ideas and exploring possibilities. It is used in brainstorming sessions, artistic endeavors, and situations where innovative solutions are needed. Divergent thinking is not concerned with finding a single right answer, but with generating a diverse set of ideas that can later be refined, combined, or tested.
How this differs between people
By this point of time, I am sure you have heard the term “neuro-divergent” in social media, often referring to people with ADHD. People who present with a form of ADHD are known to access divergent thinking styles easier than convergent thinking styles. Although, I want to discuss the diversity of human thinking styles outside of labels.
Imagine you have two gas tanks inside of your head. One for convergent thinking and one for divergent thinking. Just like anything else on our body, no two things are identical. Some people have one slightly larger tank, whereas other people have one tank that is significantly larger– and that is okay. You just need to know which one is larger so you can keep that in mind when you are buying… shoes.
Similar with thinking styles, you need to know which gas tank is larger for you to better understand your emotions and behavior. If you struggle to complete routine tasks with minimal problem solving or creative thinking (dishes, laundry, cleaning) then that’s a sign that your convergent tank is smaller. Or if you feel like you need routine and quiet to stay emotionally regulated then perhaps your convergent tank is larger. Again, the point here is not to over pathologize our differences, the point is to help tailor your life to best your shape. If you feel like your convergent tank is small, then try pairing convergent tasking with divergent tasks – clean with an interesting podcast on that makes you think. Or if your convergent tank is significantly larger, then it may be a good idea to seek out routine to create the foundation of your life with smaller episodes of spontaneity.
What to do?
If you feel like this blog speaks to something you struggle to balance, then reach out! Try searching for a therapist that works with “neuro divergence”, “ADHD”, or “ASD”. Often times those practitioners sought out specific training to learn more about how thinking styles affect behavioral and emotional responses.