NBCSN Nationally Certified School Nurse Practice Exam

What developmental characteristic is typical of children during the formal operational stage according to Piaget?

1. Concrete reasoning

2. Abstract thinking

3. Magical thinking

4. Egocentrism

The correct answer is: Abstract thinking

During the formal operational stage, which typically begins around age 11 and continues into adulthood, children develop the ability to think abstractly and logically. This stage represents a significant advancement from the previous concrete operational stage, where thinking is more grounded in tangible experiences and practical solutions. Abstract thinking allows children to engage in hypothetical scenarios, reason about possibilities, and develop systematic approaches to problem-solving. They begin to understand concepts that are not directly tied to concrete objects, such as justice, love, and morality. This key aspect of cognitive development enables them to formulate and test hypotheses, use deductive reasoning, and consider various viewpoints. This stage is crucial for the development of advanced cognitive processes necessary for more complex learning, societal interaction, and personal development. In contrast, characteristics such as concrete reasoning, magical thinking, and egocentrism are associated with earlier developmental stages.