Using Future Search To Address Wicked Systemic Problems

Most of the problems plaguing the world, including many facing psychologists, can be classified as “wicked problems,” that is, problems with so much complexity that they defy easy solutions. This paper will outline Future Search (FS), a proven effective method that can be applied to wicked problems in a way that leads to paradigm shifts, out-of-the-box thinking, and the building of new coalitions and relationships. These benefits accompany the primary benefit of FS: helping an organization or community and their stakeholders move forward together to find solutions to wicked problems with high degrees of consensus and commitment. As an example, the impact that FS has on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is discussed.