Personal Problems: Eliciting problem-operative constructs

This paper reports a procedure for eliciting constructs that are operative in the inception and continuation of personal problems, defined as a function of person-situation interactions. These constructs are ones that attribute specific qualities inherently to "the self." A small-scale (n - 8), clinical study was conducted using a semistructured interview procedure to elicit problem-operative constructs. The four steps of the procedure are illustrated with interview material. A marked coherence was found between personal problems, "self constructs," and specifiable ranges of situations. Three distinct patterns of construing were identified. These patterns form a possible basis for general statements about the functioning of self-related constructs. The clinical implications of each pattern and the validity of the constructs elicited are explored briefly.