ABSTRACT
A large volume of literature suggests that positive affect can facilitate individual problem solving. The effect of positive affect stems from its influence on processes related to perception, cognition, and motivation. More recent research has begun to examine the relationship between affect and different stages of group problem solving. In this chapter, we propose a theoretical framework to understand the relationship between affect and group performance at various stages of problem solving that synthesizes individual- and group-level research. This framework, the Group Affect Problem Solving (GAPS) model, shows relationships between individual affective processes and group affective norms at the problem identification, brainstorming, solution development, and implementation stages of the group problem-solving process. Additionally, we offer propositions underlying the GAPS model to be examined empirically in future research. Research issues and practical implications are also discussed.
