Which one of the following examples best illustrates symbolic thought as Piaget described it?
A) Isabelle pushes a classmate off the swing so that she can use it.
B) Edward tries not to cry when his mother drops him off on the first day of kindergarten.
C) Richard actively manipulates a new toy to find out what it does.
D) Laura asks herself, "Hmm, where did I put my social studies book?"

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Symbolic thought involves using symbols or mental representations to represent objects or concepts that are not physically present. Asking oneself where a book is (a symbol for the book) involves symbolic thought. The other options do not necessarily require symbolic thought - A involves a physical act, B involves emotions, and C involves exploration.

Which One of the Following Examples Best Illustrates Symbolic Thought