Because poor problem definitions undermine natural-resource policies in Southeast Asia, identifying mis-specified problem definitions, and why they occur, is useful to avoid poor policies and programs in conservation, user rights, forestry, fisheries, and non-timber agriculture.  Faulty problem definitions, such as defining narrow solutions as ultimate problems, or restricting consideration of impacts on stakeholders, restrict access to policymaking. Southeast Asian problem definitions calling for restrictive policies (such as complete bans on shifting cultivation or mangrove removal) lack the recognition of participatory and material deprivations on low-income people impacted by these restrictions. The reasons why poor problem definitions occur include ambiguous doctrines, bureaucratic interests, resource appropriation, prestige of inappropriate models, and goal substitution.  Examples from Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam are presented.