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 the way it is traditionally used. This mental block prevents individuals from imagining alternative functions for familiar objects, thereby hindering problem-solving and creativity. Overcoming functional fixedness requires a deliberate shift in perspective, often leading to innovative solutions.

Professor: Let me illustrate this with a classic experiment. Participants were given a box of thumbtacks, a candle, and a book of matches, and asked to attach the candle to the wall so it could burn without dripping wax on the floor. Many struggled because they saw the box only as a container for thumbtacks. However, those who succeeded realized they could empty the box, tack it to the wall, and use it as a platform for the candle. The key was to mentally break free from the box's usual function. Similarly, in another study, people were given a screwdriver but needed to hammer a nail. Instead of using the screwdriver's handle as a hammer, many searched for a hammer, failing to see the screwdriver's alternative use. These examples show that when we overcome functional fixedness, we can find creative solutions to everyday problems.