Question

The mental function which does NOT help in problem solving is
1. Hypothesis formulation
2. Functional fixedness
3. Insight
4. Means-end-analysis

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 2 : Functional fixedness

The correct answer is Functional fixedness.

• Functional fixedness is a type of cognitive bias.
  • In this, the person limits his creativity and is unable to see beyond the usual functions of something.
  • In other words, the person use objects in the same manner as it is traditionally used.
  • Example:
    • A person needs a jar to store sugar but instead of using an empty pickle jar, he goes and buys a new jar for sugar.
    • A person solves the geometry problem, in the same manner, he solves in past but not using any alternative method to solve the problem.
  • This type of mental set prevents the person from coming up with new solutions.
  • It will prevent the person from solving a minor problem.

• The mental set prohibits the person from seeing the solution to problems.
• It makes the thinking of a person fixed.
• The mental set of people is based on past experiences.
• Functional fixedness is originated from Gestalt psychology.