Final answer:
When we fail to solve a problem because we view it in terms of its usual functions, we are limited by a mental set or functional fixedness. To overcome these limitations, it is important to be aware of our mental set and functional fixedness.
Step-by-step explanation:
When we fail to solve a problem because we view it in terms of its usual functions, we are limited by a mental set or functional fixedness. A mental set is when we persist in approaching a problem in a way that has worked in the past but is not working for the current problem. Functional fixedness is when we cannot perceive an object being used for something other than its intended purpose. For example, in an experiment conducted by Duncker, participants were given a candle, matches, and thumbtacks and instructed to attach the candle to a wall without it dripping wax onto a table. Many participants were unable to solve the problem initially because they had functional fixedness and could not see that the thumbtacks could be used as candle holders. To overcome these limitations, it is important to be aware of our mental set and functional fixedness. This awareness allows us to think outside the box and consider alternative solutions to problems.