Explanation: Problem solving could simply be defined as a set of processes required to proffer solution or find answers to a problem. The most commonly identified barriers to problem solving include ; confirmation bias, mental set, functional fixedness, unnecessary constraints, and irrelevant information.
In the scenario above, the barrier to problem solving the individual is failing to overcome is the mental set, which could be explained when an individual is rigid on a particular method or procedure adopted in solving previous problems. There is every possibility that, the individual was successfully able to open previous doors by pushing the door and has become inclined to the idea of pushing on all doors to gain entry.
A mental set is the ability of a person to stick to the solution to the problem that has work for him or her in the past making it difficult for the person to come up with a new solution because the person keep referring to the solution of the past without looking for a solution to the current situation on ground. Making the brain of the person to stick with a known solution without looking for alternatives because the method has worked for him or her in the past which is the reason the person continue to push on the door when, according to a sign on that door, the person should try pulling open the door instead.
The barrier to the problem solving the person is failing to overcome is MENTAL SET.
Each individual develops at their own pace. There is an individual's effort to find a balance between himself and his environment, adapt to the context and follow the rules imposed by the culture. There is a learning exercise influenced by the surroundings and customs, which permits the constructing of the logic.
