托福口语 Task 3

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 recognizing alternative uses for familiar items, thereby hindering creative problem-solving. When faced with a challenge, people often become 'fixated' on an object's intended function, overlooking novel possibilities. Overcoming functional fixedness requires a deliberate shift in perspective, allowing the brain to break free from conventional associations and explore unconventional applications.

Professor: Let me give you a classic example from a psychology study. Participants were given a box of thumbtacks, a candle, 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 participants failed initially. They tried to tack the candle directly to the wall or melt wax to stick it—neither worked. However, the solution was to empty the box, tack the box to the wall, and place the candle inside it. The key was to see the box not just as a container for thumbtacks, but as a potential shelf. Those who failed were functionally fixed on the box's typical role. Once they broke that mental set, they solved it easily.