In cognitive psychology, how is mental set most commonly regarded?

Mental set is commonly regarded as a hindrance to achieving optimal solutions because it describes a cognitive bias where individuals rely on familiar strategies and approaches to solve problems, even when they may no longer be effective. This reliance on established patterns can limit flexibility in thinking and lead to fixating on one solution, preventing the exploration of alternative and potentially more effective strategies.

This concept is particularly important in cognitive psychology, as it highlights how past experiences can shape current problem-solving capabilities. When individuals become too entrenched in a specific approach, they can overlook new insights or innovative solutions that deviate from their usual methods. In practical terms, this means that while mental sets can sometimes provide shortcuts in decision-making, they can also obstruct one's ability to rethink and reframe problems effectively, especially in novel situations.

The other perspectives offered in the question do not capture the general consensus on mental set in cognitive psychology. While mental sets may occasionally serve as useful heuristics, they are predominantly viewed in the context of their potential to restrict creativity and problem-solving efficiency.