TOEFL Speaking Task 3

In psychology, the concept of "functional fixedness" refers to the tendency to perceive objects only in their traditional or intended roles, which limits creative problem-solving. When individuals face a challenge, they often fail to see alternative uses for familiar items, thereby hindering their ability to find novel solutions. Overcoming functional fixedness requires a mental shift, allowing one to repurpose objects in unconventional ways. This cognitive bias is a common barrier in everyday situations and can be addressed through practice and divergent thinking.

Professor: Let me give you an example from a classic study. Participants were asked to attach a candle to a wall so that it wouldn't drip wax on the floor. They were given a box of thumbtacks, matches, and a candle. Many struggled because they saw the box only as a container for the tacks. They tried tacking the candle directly to the wall, which failed. But the solution was to empty the box, tack it to the wall as a shelf, and place the candle on it. Once participants realized the box could serve as a platform, they overcame functional fixedness. Interestingly, when the tacks were presented outside the box, participants solved the problem much faster because the box's intended function was less obvious. This shows how our preconceived notions about an object's use can block insight.