Question

Gonzalo is attempting to open his car door using the auto lock button on his keychain. He pushes the button twice, but his car door does not open. He continues to push the button even though it is likely that the auto lock feature has stopped working, and he will need to open the door manually with his key. This illustrates a ________.

A. confirmation bias
B. functional fixedness
C. hindsight bias
D. mental set

Answer 1

Answer: The answer is d). Mental set

Explanation: A mental set is an unconscious tendency to only see solutions that have worked in the past. They are shaped by past experiences, habits, and most importantly, culture. This type of thinking impedes problem-solving skills because you are already used to what worked in the past. This mental set is what is affecting Gonzalo not to think of alternatives on how to open his car door.