functional fixedness

Examples of functional fixedness in the following topics:

• Problem-Solving

  • The way we solve problems can be influenced by algorithms, heuristics, intuition, insight, confirmation bias, and functional fixedness.
  • These spontaneous decisions are often associated with functional fixedness, confirmation bias, insight and intuition phenomenology, heuristics, and algorithms.
  • Functional fixedness concerns the solution of object-use problems.
  • Some of these mental processes include functional fixedness, confirmation bias, insight and intuition phenomenology, heuristics, and algorithms.
  • Examine how algorithms, heuristics, intuition, insight, confirmation bias, and functional fixedness can influence judgment and decision making.

• Problem Solving

  • It is considered the most complex of all intellectual functions, since it is a higher-order cognitive process that requires the modulation and control of basic skills.
  • Functional fixedness is a special type of mental set that occurs when the intended purpose of an object hinders a person's ability to see its potential other uses.

• Executive Function and Control

  • The executive system is a theoretical cognitive system that manages the processes of executive function.
  • The major frontal structures involved in executive function are:
  • Executive-function development corresponds to the development of the growing brain; as the processing capacity of the frontal lobes (and other interconnected regions) increases, the core executive functions emerge.
  • In adolescence, these functions all become better integrated as they continue developing.
  • The different parts of the prefrontal cortex are vital to executive function.

• The Central Nervous System (CNS)

  • The CNS is mainly devoted to the "information synthesizing" function.
  • the temporal lobe, which controls hearing and some other speech functions.
  • Its main function is maintaining coordination throughout the body.
  • The pons houses the control centers for respiration and inhibitory functions.
  • Spinal nerves originate from the spinal cord and control the functions of the rest of the body.

• Early Frameworks: Structuralism and Functionalism

  • Structuralism and functionalism were two of the earliest frameworks of psychological thought.
  • One rather important alternative was functionalism, founded by William James in the late 19th century.
  • Built on structuralism's concern for the anatomy of the mind, functionalism led to greater concern of the functions of the mind, and later on to behaviorism.
  • Psychology 101 - Wundt & James: Structuralism & Functionalism - Vook
  • Here, the foundations of structuralism and functionalism are contrasted.

• Introduction to Sleep

  • Research on rats has found that a week of no sleep leads to loss of immune function, and two weeks of no sleep leads to death.
  • Despite its clear importance to psychological and physiological functioning, researchers have struggled for centuries to answer the question of why we sleep.
  • We also know that extended sleeplessness can lead to hallucinations, delusions, loss of immune function, and in extreme cases, death.
  • Recently, neuroscientists have learned that at least one vital function of sleep is related to learning and memory.
  • Sleep debt results in diminished abilities to perform high-level cognitive functions.

• Cerebral Hemispheres and Lobes of the Brain

  • The brain is divided into two hemispheres and four lobes, each of which specializes in a different function.
  • There is evidence that each brain hemisphere has its own distinct functions, a phenomenon referred to as lateralization.
  • The frontal lobe is associated with executive functions and motor performance.
  • Executive functions are some of the highest-order cognitive processes that humans have.
  • Outline the structure and function of the lobes and hemispheres of the brain

• Nutrition and Health

  • Cells rely on nutrients in food to function properly.
  • In order to function properly, the human body must meet specific caloric and nutritional needs.
  • These molecules are broken down into essential amino acids and fatty acids and used as fuel for cellular functions.
  • If excess caloric energy is consumed, beyond what is needed to maintain body functioning, it is stored in adipose (fat) tissue.
  • The USDA Food Pyramid demonstrates the variety and quantity of food needed to promote proper body function and prevent disease.

• Human Language and the Brain

  • Several areas of the brain must function together in order for a person to develop, use, and understand language.
  • These areas must function together in order for a person to develop, use, and understand language.

• Neurocognitive Disorders

  • Neurocognitive functions are cognitive functions closely linked to the function of particular brain areas, neural pathways, or cortical networks in the brain substrate at the cellular molecular level.
  • Neuropsychology and cognitive neuroscience are two disciplines that seek to understand how the structure and function of the brain relates to perception, memory, and thought processes behind behavior.
  • Gradually, bodily functions are lost, ultimately leading to death.
  • In order to be diagnosed, a person must exhibit a cognitive decline and some impairment in cognitive functioning.
  • This PET scan shows the image of the brain of a person with Alzheimer's disease, indicating a loss of function in the temporal lobe.