Identifying Behavioral and Cognitive Patterns Related to Enhancing Problem-Solving Skills in Elementary School Children

The aim of this study is to identify behavioral and cognitive patterns related to enhancing problem-solving skills in elementary school children. This qualitative study used thematic analysis. Fourteen elementary school children from Tehran were purposively selected. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, and analysis was performed using Nvivo software and thematic analysis. The study focused on identifying behavioral and cognitive patterns affecting children's problem-solving processes. The findings indicated that cognitive skills such as logical and critical thinking, social skills like collaboration and group interaction, and self-regulation skills were key factors in enhancing problem-solving abilities in children. Moreover, social interactions and self-control skills significantly improved children's ability to solve complex problems. The results of this study suggest that strengthening cognitive and social skills in elementary school children can significantly help them in solving complex problems and improving their academic performance. These findings can assist educators in designing more effective educational programs focused on problem-solving.