Kiara, a three-year-old, and Darlan, a five-year-old, asked their mother for juice. Their mother poured equal amounts of juice for them, the only difference being that she gave Kiara a short wide cup but Darlan a tall thin one. Kiara was upset and started to cry, insisting that Darlan's cup had more juice than hers. This indicates that Kiara is in Jean Piaget's ________ stage of cognitive development.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Kiara's reaction is indicative of the preoperational stage of cognitive development, according to Jean Piaget. This stage occurs roughly between the ages of 2 and 7. Children in this stage do not yet understand the concept of conservation—the idea that quantity remains the same despite changes in shape or appearance. Kiara's belief that the taller cup holds more juice, despite being told the amounts are equal, demonstrates this lack of understanding.

Kiara, a Three-Year-Old, and Darlan, a Five-Year-Old, Asked Their Mother