Understanding Functional Fixedness

Questions and Answers

What is functional fixedness?

It is a cognitive bias that limits a person to using an object only in the way it is traditionally used.

Functional fixedness limits a hammer to be used to?

Both A and B (correct)

Neither A nor B

Remove nails

Pound nails

What is an example of functional fixedness?

Someone unable to use a roll of paper towels as a speaker because he just sticks to the knowledge of the roll's normal function.

What was the conclusion of the Candle Problem Experiment?

The majority of people suffer from functional fixedness. Signup and view all the answers

In Duncker's 'Candle problem', which main component did most test subjects forget about when attempting to solve the problem?

The box the thumbtacks came in. Signup and view all the answers

Choose the results of the Candle Box Experiment that occurred when tested on participants.

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the candle problem?

To attach a candle to the wall so that it did not drip onto the table below. Signup and view all the answers

What is a prototype and how does one overcome it?

A prototype is the original meant use of a product, and one overcomes it by thinking outside the box and using the product in an unintentional way. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Functional Fixedness Overview

Functional fixedness is a cognitive bias that restricts individuals to using objects solely for their traditional purposes.

Limitations of Functional Fixedness

A hammer is typically perceived as a tool for pounding or removing nails, demonstrating functional fixedness in action.

Real-World Example

An individual may fail to utilize a roll of paper towels as a speaker because they are constrained by the conventional purpose of the roll.

Candle Problem Experiment Findings

The Candle Problem experiment indicates that a significant number of people experience functional fixedness, particularly with the inability to repurpose the box of thumbtacks as a candle holder due to its intended function.

Key Component Ignored in Experiments

In Duncker's Candle Problem, most participants overlooked the box that contained the thumbtacks, which was crucial for solving the problem.

Results of the Candle Box Experiment

Participants exhibited varied problem-solving approaches, such as:
- Gluing or melting the candle to the wall.
- Using the box to prevent dripping onto the table.
- Attempting to directly attach the candle to the wall with tacks.

Definition of the Candle Problem

The challenge involves attaching a candle to a wall in a manner that prevents wax from dripping onto the table below.

Understanding Prototypes and Overcoming Them

A prototype represents the intended use of a product. Overcoming this fixed view requires creative thinking and using the product in unconventional ways.

Description

Explore the concept of functional fixedness through these flashcards. This cognitive bias highlights how our perceptions limit the use of objects to their traditional functions. Test your knowledge and discover examples of this intriguing psychological phenomenon.