托福口语 Task 3

In psychology, the concept of 'functional fixedness' refers to a cognitive bias that limits a person to using an object only in its traditional manner. This mental block prevents individuals from realizing alternative uses for familiar items, thereby hindering problem-solving and creative thinking. When faced with a challenge, people often become fixated on an object's intended function, overlooking novel approaches that could lead to solutions. Overcoming functional fixedness requires a shift in perspective, allowing the mind to explore unconventional applications of everyday objects.

Professor: Let me illustrate this with a classic experiment. 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 struggled because they saw the thumbtack box solely as a container for tacks. They tried to tack the candle directly or melt wax to stick it, but none worked. However, some participants realized they could empty the box, tack it to the wall as a small shelf, and place the candle inside it. This required overcoming functional fixedness—seeing the box not just as a holder but as a platform. Those who succeeded mentally redefined the box's use, demonstrating that breaking free from fixed functions leads to effective solutions.