What does functional fixedness refer to in problem-solving?

Functional fixedness is a cognitive bias that limits a person’s ability to use an object only in the way it is traditionally used or perceived. This concept plays a critical role in problem-solving because it can hinder creativity and the ability to think outside the box when faced with challenges. When an individual experiences functional fixedness, they may struggle to identify alternate uses for an object or see it in a different context that could facilitate a solution.

For example, if someone is trying to tighten a screw but only thinks of a screwdriver as the applicable tool, they may overlook using a coin or another object that could effectively accomplish the same task. Recognizing that an object can serve multiple purposes is essential for overcoming this cognitive barrier and can lead to more innovative solutions.

The other options relate to different aspects of cognitive processes but do not capture the essence of functional fixedness. The ability to find new solutions is a general skill that is often hindered by functional fixedness rather than being the definition itself. Forgetting past solutions pertains to memory issues rather than the constraints imposed by fixed thinking about objects. Similarly, while relating objects can be part of problem-solving, it does not specifically describe the restriction imposed by functional fixedness on how one thinks about an object.