The Mindset of Innovation: Contributions of Cognitive and Social Psychology

Abstract

In order to consider anything as new, individuals have to accept it as

possible. To consider it as innovative, a person has to see it as necessary.

These two concepts, derived from Piaget's theory (1987), are key elements

for the analysis of innovation mindset. Theoretical framework explains

how “opening up for new possibilities” implies overcoming pseudo

impossibilities, and how possibilities are built up alongside individual

development. In short, an innovation has to be considered possible and

necessary, feasible and viable. Thus, the cognitive processes involved

in defining what is possible, and accepting what doesn't have to be the

old way, are crucial mental structures subjacent to innovations’ decision

making. This study examines mindset through mental models, cognitive

processes and executive functions, as well as Piaget and Gestalt theory's

contributions. The empirical investigation involved a search for articles

published on the theme between 2019 and 2021, concluding that they apply

the innovation mindset definition, taking for granted the psychological

mechanisms inlayed in it. The article also points up to the gap between

management and psychology, indicating the urgent need of interdisciplinary

studies, due to the mutual benefits for both sciences and also, better

comprehension of the constructs.