Fixed and Mobile Field Independence: Review of Studies Relevant to Werner's Dimension

Abstract

Werner's fixity-versus-mobility dimension has been used by Witkin and others to articulate the concept of field independence. Methodological reasons are discussed for the failure of earlier studies to reveal this dimension. The possible use of other perceptual phenomena for its measurement is suggested. Relationships are drawn between the fixity-versus-mobility dimension and other psychological dimensions, with special attention to creativity and normality. Future studies of differential learning ability and of the relation between intelligence and creativity may benefit from the application of Werner's concepts as they have been elaborated by subsequent workers.