Sarah Bidmead, Ph.D.

Visiting Professor of Psychology

Broadly, I am interested in the way that pre-existing knowledge about tasks, objects, and tools can affect how individuals approach problems. The phenomenon in which prior knowledge precludes novel or innovative solutions is known as "fixation." I am interested in how situational factors (such as stress) as well as dispositional factors (such as inhibitory control) may influence the ability to overcome fixation and solve problems creatively.

Courses Taught:

General Psychology
Perception/Cognition
Upper Level Cognitive Seminar and Lab