Target fixation explained

Target fixation is an attentional phenomenon observed in humans in which an individual becomes so focused on an observed object (be it a target or hazard) that they inadvertently increase their risk of colliding with the object. It is associated with scenarios in which the operator is in control of a high-speed vehicle or other mode of transportation, such as motorists, fighter pilots, race-car drivers, paragliders, and motorcyclists.[1] In such cases, the observer may fixate so intently on the target that they steer in the direction of their gaze, which is often the ultimate cause of a collision. The term target fixation was originally used in World War II fighter-bomber pilot training to describe pilots flying into targets during a strafing or bombing run.

Cause and effect

Target fixation is caused by becoming focused on one thing that is usually distracting, dangerous, or rewarding.[2] Focus can be caused by "anticipated success", such as when trying to arrive at a destination in a certain amount of time while driving.

While experiencing target fixation, a person can be very susceptible to dangerous situations due to lack of awareness of one's surroundings.[3]

Avoidance

To avoid this phenomenon, one can be aware and in control of vision when in a panic mode or in a reward mode.[4] A person should think about what they see and be aware of their environment before making any decisions.

See also

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Edmunds. Glen. The Phenomenon of Target Fixation & How To Avoid It . https://web.archive.org/web/20140413140554/http://glenedmunds.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=123:the-phenomenon-of-target-fixation-a-how-to-avoid-it&catid=25:driving-articles&Itemid=132 . April 13, 2014 . Glen Edmunds Performance Driving School. 12 April 2014.
  2. Web site: Do You Have "Eyes on the Prize" or "Target Fixation"?. Psychology Today. en-US. 2020-04-08.
  3. Web site: Safety Check Target Fixation. United States Parachute Association. en-US. 2020-04-08.
  4. Web site: How to Avoid Target Fixation Riding Skills Series. Cycle World. en. 2020-04-08.