Conceptualizing and measuring intuition: A review of recent trends

Abstract

Intuition consists of affectively charged judgments arising from rapid, nonconscious, and holistic associations. Functional distinctions exist between problem-solving, moral, and creative intuition, categorized by varying levels of affective intensity, cognitive convergence, and the requirement for an incubation period. The utilization of intuitive processing is driven by positive affective states, individual differences in experiential thinking styles, and environmental factors such as social power. Decision-making efficacy via intuition depends on high levels of domain-specific expertise, the presence of time constraints, and the nature of the task, with unstructured judgmental tasks being particularly amenable to intuitive approaches. Optimal outcomes generally require the strategic integration of both intuitive and analytical modes. Empirical measurement of these processes involves a range of techniques, including direct instruction, retrospective protocols, incubational distraction tasks, and neurophysiological imaging. Despite increasing conceptual agreement on the core features of intuition, methodological fragmentation remains a challenge. Progress in the field depends on refined taxonomies of intuitive types and the development of standardized tools for capturing nonconscious processes in organizational settings. – AI-generated abstract.