Divergent thinking is linked with convergent thinking; implications for models of creativity

Rawlings, Bruce, S.; Chetwynd-Talbot, Daisy; Husband, Erin; Nuttall, Aisling; Quinn, Elissa; Taggart, Rosie; Roome, Hannah E.

Abstract

Creativity is a critical 21st‑century skill, encompassing the ability to generate unique, diverse ideas (divergent thinking) and evaluate them to select optimal ones (convergent thinking). Despite attempts to integrate convergent thinking into creativity frameworks, most research focuses on divergent thinking, and studies assessing their association remain inconclusive. We examined the relationship between performance on two widely used measures of divergent and convergent thinking—the Alternate Uses task and the Remote Associations test—in UK adults. Alternate Uses scores of fluency, originality, elaboration, and a composite score were all positively associated with Remote Associations test scores. We also replicated findings that Alternate Uses scores of fluency, originality, and elaboration were intercorrelated. This study reports a direct positive association between these measures, suggesting individuals who generate numerous unique, detailed ideas are also adept at identifying correct solutions. We discuss the implications and the need to integrate convergent thinking into creativity models.

Citation

Rawlings, B. S., Chetwynd-Talbot, D., Husband, E., Nuttall, A., Quinn, E., Taggart, R., & Roome, H. E. (online). Divergent thinking is linked with convergent thinking; implications for models of creativity. Thinking and Reasoning, 1-23. https://doi.org/10.1080/13546783.2025.2485059

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Mar 21, 2025
• Online Publication Date: Mar 29, 2025
• Deposit Date: Mar 30, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: Mar 31, 2025
• Journal: Thinking and Reasoning
• Print ISSN: 1354-6783
• Electronic ISSN: 1464-0708
• Publisher: Taylor and Francis Group
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Pages: 1-23
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/13546783.2025.2485059
• Public URL: https://durham-repository.worktribe.com/output/3746181