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.
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]
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.