Which analysis identifies the driving and restraining forces affecting change?

• A. The most effective ways to solve a problem or achieve a goal by weighing the factors that help or hinder a solution.
• B. Force field analysis identifies the driving and restraining forces affecting change.
• C. To simplify the understanding of complex systems and assess the chances for success or failure of a new policy.
• D. A device for making trade-offs between conflicting goals or preferences by evaluating decision options against criteria.

Answer: (B)

Force field analysis focuses on the forces pushing for change (driving) and those resisting it (restraining). By mapping these forces, you see whether the balance is likely to tip toward change and you identify where to intervene. In practice you list the driving and restraining factors, assess their strength, and decide how to strengthen the drivers or reduce the restrainers—for example, by communicating benefits, providing training, or removing obstacles. This approach helps determine feasibility and guides actions to tilt the balance in favor of change. The other descriptions describe general problem-solving by weighing factors, broad policy assessment, or evaluating options against criteria, none of which specifically capture the push-pull forces that drive or block change.