An experimental investigation of two factors which produce stereotyped behavior in problem situations.

Abstract

The results of this experiment justify the following conclusions: (1) When the chances for the solution of a problem are considered perfect the time spent on it is strikingly longer than when the chances are all but perfect; similarly, when the chances are viewed as even, the point of resignation is reached earlier, but definitely later than when the chances are considered very slight. (2) The amount of time spent in a given activity is an inverse function of the number of alternative and equally promising activities which the individual knows are open to him but holds in abeyance while pursuing the given activity. When the subject has but one means of tackling the problem, his preseverence in it is strikingly greater than it is on the first of two attacks; when he has as many as 7, he abandons the first very readily. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved)