In cognitive psychology, which of the following is considered a type of mental set?

• A. Operant extinction
• B. Classical conditioning
• C. Sensory adaptation
• D. Functional fixedness

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of a mental set in cognitive psychology: it refers to a tendency to approach problems using a mindset or strategy that has worked in the past, which can sometimes limit problem-solving effectiveness.
2. Review each option to see if it fits the definition of a mental set:
3. Operant extinction involves the reduction of a learned behavior when reinforcement stops, which is a behavioral learning process, not a mental set.
4. Classical conditioning is a learning process where a neutral stimulus becomes associated with a meaningful stimulus, also not a mental set.
5. Sensory adaptation refers to the diminished sensitivity to a stimulus after prolonged exposure, which is a sensory process, not related to mental sets.
6. Functional fixedness is a specific type of mental set where a person is unable to see alternative uses for an object beyond its traditional function, making it a classic example of a mental set.