What characteristic can elevate a mental model to the status of a paradigm?

The characteristic that can elevate a mental model to the status of a paradigm is becoming a rigid mindset that resists change. A paradigm represents a widely accepted framework or approach that shapes how individuals understand and interpret their experiences. When a mental model becomes rigid, it solidifies into a paradigm that defines a person's perception of reality and their approach to problem-solving. This rigidity often results in a strong commitment to the established ways of thinking, which can limit flexibility and adaptation.

In contrast, continuous creativity and innovation foster growth and evolution in thinking, making it less likely for a mental model to become a paradigm. Adaptation to new circumstances indicates flexibility, which contradicts the essence of a rigid mindset. Frequent revisiting and evaluation suggest openness to change and improvement, which also does not align with the entrenched nature of a paradigm. Thus, it is the rigidity and resistance to change that characterize a paradigm, distinguishing it from more dynamic mental models.