Which of the following statements best expresses the relationship between mental set and functional fixedness?
A) Functional fixedness is really a specific instance of mental set.
B) Mental set is a specific instance of functional fixedness.
C) Functional fixedness and mental set are the same thing.
D) Functional fixedness and mental set are distinct problem-solving impediments.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Functional fixedness is a type of cognitive bias that limits a person to using an object only in the way it is traditionally used, which is actually a specific example of a mental set. A mental set is a broader concept that refers to our tendency to approach situations in a certain way because that method worked in the past. Therefore, functional fixedness can be seen as a specific manifestation of mental set, where the mental set is specifically about the functions of objects.

Which of the Following Statements Best Expresses the Relationship Between