Unpacking Creativity

Abstract

Creativity research has a long and illustrious history, yet the assumptions on which it is based have not been questioned. Most researchers assume that creativity is a unitary construct, hindering a fuller understanding of the phenomenon. Here I argue against homogeneity through the development of a matrix of four creativity types: responsive, expected, contributory, and proactive. Implications include highlighting an imbalance in research, differences in processes, and predictors for the various types, as well as newly considering methodologies.