"Object permanence" is a major characteristic of which stage of child development?
Detailed Explanation
📌 Core Theoretical Concept:
"Object permanence" is the understanding that objects continue to exist even when they cannot be seen, heard, or touched. This critical cognitive milestone is the defining characteristic of Jean Piaget's sensorimotor stage, which corresponds to infancy (birth to approximately 2 years of age). Before the development of object permanence, infants live in the moment—out of sight means completely out of mind. Once acquired, the infant actively searches for hidden items, indicating the formation of mental representations and internal schemas, marking a monumental shift in cognitive development during early life.
📊 Key Exam Points:
- Jean Piaget formulated the theory of cognitive development, identifying the sensorimotor stage as the foundation during infancy.
- Option (A) Middle childhood focuses on concrete operational thought and logical operations.
- Option (B) Adulthood involves abstract problem-solving and full cognitive maturity.
- Option (D) Early childhood emphasizes symbolic function, egocentrism, and rapid language acquisition, whereas object permanence is established earlier in infancy.
📖 Theoretical Reference: Piaget's theory asserts that infants construct knowledge through sensory experiences and physical interactions with the environment. Read more about Piaget's Cognitive Development.