A problem is something that needs a solution.
When analyzing the term problem in depth, it is necessary that we first stipulate its etymological origin. In this sense, we can say that it is found in Latin and more specifically in the word problēma . However, it must also be determined that it in turn comes from the Greek term πρόβλημα.
A problem is a certain issue or question that requires a solution . At a social level, it is a specific situation that, when it is solved, provides benefits to society (such as reducing the poverty rate of a country or rebuilding buildings destroyed by an earthquake).
For example: “We have a big problem: tomorrow we have to pay the rent and we don't have enough money” , “The problem will be solved when the manager fires the employees who don't make an effort” , “Thanks to your help, I was able to complete the task and I had no problems with the teacher.”
The problem in different areas
In the same way, along this line there is a second meaning of the term in question and that defines it as a displeasure or concern that someone has for a specific reason. An example of this meaning could be the following: “Luisa and Miguel's son keeps giving them problems.”
It is possible to find problems of the most diverse nature. Unemployment is an economic and social problem that, on a large scale, can only be solved by the government of a country, beyond the efforts of people to find employment. A leaking wall, on the other hand, represents a domestic problem that a person can and should solve at home.
In addition to everything mentioned, it is also necessary that we make it clear that there are many and varied types of problems that are specific to various sciences or areas where they are developed. In this sense, the most frequent are those that are related to fields such as Philosophy, Mathematics, Religion or Medicine, among many others.
In some cases, solving a problem is very complex.
Health disorders
Thus, with respect to this last area we can say that there are numerous health problems that exist: physical, mental, acute, chronic... All of them mean that the patient who suffers from them has to turn to a doctor who will be in charge of studying what is happening to them. , to perform the pertinent tests and finally to determine the corresponding treatment.
An example of this could be the following: “Julia had a health problem related to her joints so she inevitably had to undergo surgery.”
The problem in philosophy, religion and mathematics
For philosophy , a problem is something that alters the peace, balance and harmony of the person or persons who have it. Within religion , however, a problem can be the result of an internal contradiction that arises between two dogmas (how does an omnibenevolent and all-powerful God allow the existence of suffering?).
Mathematics talks about problems when there are questions regarding a structure or an object, the answers to which require an explanation with its corresponding demonstration. This means that a mathematical problem is solved by finding an entity that makes it possible to satisfy the conditions of the problem.