---
title: "Functional Fixedness — AP Psychology Definition & Examples"
description: "Functional fixedness is the cognitive bias of seeing objects only in their usual roles. Learn how it blocks problem-solving and how it differs from mental set."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/functional-fixedness"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Psychology"
---

# Functional Fixedness — AP Psychology Definition & Examples

## Definition

Functional fixedness is a cognitive bias that limits a person's ability to use an object only in the way it is traditionally used.

## Related Study Guides

- [5.8 Biases and Errors in Thinking ](/ap-psych-revised/unit-5/biases-errors-thinking/study-guide/DIq2vGGjPbRN3hEazKoV)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Mental Set](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/mental-set): A tendency for people to approach problems in certain ways because they have worked in the past.
- [Confirmation Bias](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/confirmation-bias): The tendency for people to favor information that confirms their existing beliefs or values.
- [Divergent Thinking](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/divergent-thinking): A thought process used to generate creative ideas by exploring many possible solutions.