TOEFL Speaking Task 3

In psychology, the concept of 'functional fixedness' refers to the tendency to perceive objects only in terms of their most common or intended use, which can hinder problem-solving. When people are fixated on an object's typical function, they fail to see alternative ways it could be used to solve a novel problem. This cognitive bias limits creativity and flexibility in thinking. Overcoming functional fixedness often requires a deliberate shift in perspective, allowing the mind to explore unconventional uses for familiar items.

Professor: So, let me give you a classic example from a study. Participants were given a candle, a box of thumbtacks, and a book of matches. Their task was to attach the candle to the wall so that it could burn without dripping wax on the floor. Many tried to tack the candle directly to the wall, but it was too thick. Others tried to melt the wax to stick it, but it didn't hold. The solution was to empty the thumbtack box, tack it to the wall as a small shelf, and place the candle inside it. But most people failed initially because they saw the box only as a container for tacks, not as a potential platform. That's functional fixedness—they couldn't see the box's alternative use. Once they realized the box could serve as a shelf, the problem was solved.