Functional Fixedness

Definition

Functional fixedness is a cognitive bias where people tend to see objects or ideas only in their conventional roles or purposes, making it difficult to consider alternative uses or applications. This phenomenon can hinder creativity and problem-solving because individuals are often limited by past experiences or traditional ways of thinking.

Example

You have a paperclip that’s commonly used to hold papers together. Now, suppose you need to fix a loose button on your shirt. Due to functional fixedness, you might not consider using the paperclip as a temporary replacement for the missing button because its usual purpose is to clip papers, not repair clothing.

Why It Matters

Functional fixedness matters because it can limit our ability to think creatively and find innovative solutions to problems. By being stuck on an object's typical use, we might overlook simpler or more effective ways to achieve a goal. Recognizing functional fixedness helps us break free from conventional thinking and fosters adaptability in both everyday challenges and professional settings, leading to more creative problem-solving approaches.