How does ITIL define "problem"?

In ITIL, a "problem" is defined as the underlying cause of one or more incidents. This definition emphasizes the importance of identifying and addressing the root causes of incidents to prevent them from recurring, rather than simply treating the symptoms. Problems can lead to a deeper understanding of service issues and help organizations enhance their service management processes.

This focus is crucial within ITIL's framework, as it underlines the proactive nature of problem management. By identifying the root causes of incidents, organizations can implement solutions that improve overall service reliability and customer satisfaction.

The other choices do not align with the ITIL definition of a problem. A temporary issue refers more to an incident rather than the underlying cause. A documented service request is a request for service but does not encompass the concept of problems within ITIL. An event affecting services is typically associated with monitoring and incident detection, but does not specify the underlying cause or a problem itself. Overall, the correct definition appropriately captures the essence of problem management in ITIL.