A major cognitive advance made during the sensorimotor stage is the ability to
A) think abstractly and creatively.
B) solve simple problems using mental representation.
C) understand that the self is distinct from other people and objects.
D) create mental representations of objects that are not physically present.
E) know that changes in appearance do not mean that the object itself changes.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During the sensorimotor stage, infants develop the ability to create mental representations of objects that are not physically present. This is known as object permanence and is a major cognitive advance during this stage. Option A is incorrect because abstract and creative thinking develop much later during the formal operational stage. Option B is partially correct, as problem-solving using mental representation is an important skill developed during this stage, but it is not a major cognitive advance. Option C is incorrect since the understanding that the self is distinct from other people and objects does not develop until later in childhood. Option E is also incorrect because the ability to understand that changes in appearance do not mean that the object itself changes also develops later in childhood.

A Major Cognitive Advance Made During the Sensorimotor Stage Is