Creativity and differentiation of self: A proposed resolution to the creativity crisis.

摘要

Many researchers are contending that creativity is the most valuable trait of modern civilization. Given society's rapid technological advancements, research indicates that creativity is essential to society's ability to innovate, survive, and prosper. However, America is currently experiencing a "creativity crisis" in which scores of creative thinking have significantly decreased over the last two decades. Differentiation of self, a family systems theory consisting of intra- and inter-personal dimensions--the ability to self-regulate as well as balance individuality and togetherness--is proposed as a possible resolution to the creativity crisis. The relationship between creativity, as measured by the most widely used test of creative thinking, and differentiation of self, measured by a psychometrically sound self-report measure, was analyzed. Results indicated that individuals who were able to tolerate pain for growth were able to communicate unique and original ideas and scored high on various creativity thinking indicators. Additionally, individuals who did not react to difficult situations with avoidance also scored high on a creativity indicator. Interestingly, an unexpected effect was found between flexibility and the ability to have a clear sense of self as well as flexibility and total self-differentiation. Implications of the impact of facing discomfort, rather than avoiding, and tolerating pain for growth are elucidated and suggestions for combating the creativity crisis are explored.