Functional fixedness is a cognitive bias that restricts an individual to using an object only in its traditional manner. This mental block limits the ability to utilize components effectively for problem-solving by focusing on the conventional purpose of those objects. The bias can hinder innovative thinking, as demonstrated in experiments where people fail to see alternate uses for familiar items due to their fixation on the objects’ standard functions.
In the classic candle problem experiment by Karl Duncker, participants were provided with a candle, tacks, and a box and asked to attach the candle to a wall without dripping wax on the table below. Most participants tried to attach the candle directly or melt it to stick it, failing to see that the box could serve as a candle holder, demonstrating functional fixedness.
To overcome functional fixedness, actively practice thinking outside the box by brainstorming multiple uses for common objects, encouraging flexibility in thinking and problem-solving strategies.