Communications Psychology (Jun 2024)

Changes in semantic memory structure support successful problem-solving and analogical transfer

  • Théophile Bieth,
  • Yoed N. Kenett,
  • Marcela Ovando-Tellez,
  • Alizée Lopez-Persem,
  • Célia Lacaux,
  • Marie Scuccimarra,
  • Inès Maye,
  • Jade Sénéchal,
  • Delphine Oudiette,
  • Emmanuelle Volle

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1038/s44271-024-00100-w
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 2, no. 1
pp. 1 – 17

Abstract

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Abstract Creative problem-solving is central in daily life, yet its underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Restructuring (i.e., reorganization of problem-related representations) is considered one problem-solving mechanism and may lead to an abstract problem-related representation facilitating the solving of analogous problems. Here, we used network science methodology to estimate participants’ semantic memory networks (SemNets) before and after attempting to solve a riddle. Restructuring was quantified as the difference in SemNets metrics between pre- and post-solving phases. Our results provide initial evidence that problem-related SemNets restructuring may be associated with the successful solving of the riddle and, subsequently, an analogous one. Solution-relevant concepts and semantically remote concepts became more strongly related in solvers. Only changes in semantically remote concepts were instrumental in actively solving the riddle while changes in solution-relevant concepts may reflect a pre-exposure to the solution.