Problem Response Lab
We educate, celebrate, & collaborate with a growing community of problem solving-champions. This page is dedicated to a range of tools, resources and ideas We specialize in teaching identity shaping, using the same tools an actor uses to create a role for the stage in the process of creating heroes leaders and champions. We develop social, emotional and problem solving skills and are dedicated to growth, training and development for a generation of champions.
02/27/2025
Fear vs. Facts: The Power of Critical Thinking in Problem-Solving
A mother once made the decision to forgo vaccinating her child. Around the same time, her child’s playmate received the MMR vaccine. Around the same time, her own child contracted measles. The mother was convinced—it must have been the vaccinated child that caused it.
But that’s not how vaccines work. The MMR vaccine contains a weakened (not live) virus that helps the immune system fight measles without spreading it. Her child was exposed to measles elsewhere—likely from an unvaccinated person, as 90% of unvaccinated individuals will catch it if exposed.
Yet, her belief felt true. It was emotionally convincing. The belief aligned with her fears. And so, she held onto it, even as medical professionals explained the science.
This is where critical thinking matters. Back in 1998, a now-disgraced doctor, Andrew Wakefield, falsely claimed a link between the MMR vaccine and autism. His study was later proven fraudulent, retracted, and he lost his medical license. But the damage was done—fear had already taken hold.
Autism can feel scary for parents. It’s understandable. Every parent wants to protect their child. But when fear overrides evidence, we stop making decisions based on reality—and that can have real consequences.
This is why critical thinking is a non-negotiable skill in problem-solving for both adults and kids. It teaches us to:
✅ Ask where our information comes from—peer-reviewed science or viral social media posts?
✅ Question correlation vs. causation—does one thing actually cause another, or are they just happening at the same time?
✅ Recognize emotional bias—are we being led by facts or fear?
What happens when we choose facts over fear?
We make better decisions, such as fewer outbreaks of preventable diseases. We create stronger relationships and healthier healthier communities.
Fear-based thinking spreads like a virus. But critical thinking is the vaccine that protects us from misinformation. My book, from the Heroes Leaders Champions (R) series, is an important tool in teaching critical thinking.
What’s a time when critical thinking helped you make a better decision? Let’s discuss. 👇
Calling all families! Problem-solving is a team sport. Tonight, gather your household for a brainstorming session. Pick a family challenge - maybe it's reducing screen time or planning a vacation. Use the 'Yes, and...' technique from improv. Build on each other's ideas without judgment. Kids, parents, grandparents - everyone contributes. You'll be amazed at the creative solutions you create together. Bonus: It's a great way to bond!
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