Which of the following statements about mental sets is accurate?

Mental sets refer to the tendency of individuals to approach problems in a specific way based on prior experiences and solutions that have been successful in similar contexts. This established way of thinking can provide efficiency in problem-solving but can also lead to rigidity.

The statement that mental sets can create barriers to solving new problems is accurate because when individuals are fixated on a certain approach or mindset, they may overlook alternative solutions or possibilities that could be more effective in a new context. This is particularly evident when faced with problems that require creative thinking or innovative solutions that do not align with previously successful methods.

For example, a person who has consistently used a particular technique in the past might struggle to adapt to a new problem requiring a different strategy, illustrating how mental sets can hinder problem-solving abilities. In cognitive psychology, awareness of these sets is important for fostering adaptability and creativity in thinking.

The other statements do not capture the nuanced role of mental sets in problem-solving. They may suggest an overly simplistic view – that mental sets are either wholly beneficial or ineffective – which does not align with how cognitive processes actually work. Understanding that mental sets can both aid and impede problem-solving can lead to more effective strategies for overcoming cognitive barriers.