Einstellung effect

plural Einstellung effects

1. A problem-solving mindset displayed where a simpler solution for solving a particular problem type is not noticed due to thinking being fixed into a particular logic pattern by earlier repetitions of similar solutions.

   1 more example

   In psychology, the concept of the Einstellung effect is commonly associated with problem solving as the description of one's tendency (mindset) to use a previously learned workable strategy in situations that either can be resolved more efficiently through a different approach or to which the strategy is not applicable at all.

   2026, Jinfa Cai, Roza Leikin, editors, Research in Mathematical Problem Posing: New Advances and Directions, Springer Nature, →ISBN, page 274