Quiz Entry - updated: 2026.07.14
How does a problem-oriented line of questioning differ from a solution-focused one?
Problem questions point backward and downward ("what's wrong, why is it so hard?"); solution questions point forward and outward ("what would help, what do you want?").
The same conversation can run on two completely different sets of questions:
| Problem-oriented | Solution-focused |
|---|---|
| "What is the problem?" | "What might help now?" |
| "Why is it so difficult?" | "What do you wish for?" |
| "How do you feel when you fail?" | "Which strengths could help?" |
Problem questions deepen the analysis of what's broken and tend to keep the person inside the difficulty. Solution questions redirect attention toward wishes, resources and the desired future — and, per the language premise, what you ask about is what grows. The shift in questioning is the shift in therapy.
Tip: A question is never neutral — it decides which way the conversation travels.