托福口语 Task 3

In psychology, the concept of 'functional fixedness' refers to the tendency to perceive objects only in terms of their most common or intended use, which limits creative problem-solving. When individuals are fixed on an object's typical function, they fail to consider alternative ways it might be used to solve a novel problem. This cognitive bias can hinder innovation and adaptability in everyday situations. Overcoming functional fixedness often requires a deliberate shift in perspective, allowing one to see beyond conventional uses and explore unconventional possibilities.

Professor: Let me give you an example from a classic experiment. Participants were given a candle, a box of tacks, and a book of matches, and were asked to attach the candle to a wall so that it could burn without dripping wax on the floor. Many struggled because they saw the tack box only as a container for tacks. They tried to tack the candle directly to the wall or melt wax to stick it, but nothing worked. The solution was to empty the tacks from the box, tack the box to the wall as a shelf, and place the candle inside. The participants who succeeded were those who overcame functional fixedness—they realized the box could serve as a platform, not just a container. This shows how breaking free from typical uses can lead to creative solutions.