Question

Which of the following characteristics are first evident during the sixth substage of sensori-motor period?
(A). Solving problems through symbolic means.
(B). Using trial and error to find solutions.
(C). Understanding cause and effect.
(D). Engage in make-believe play.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (D) only.
• B. (A) and (D) only.
• C. (A), (B), (C) and (D).
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only.

Hint:

Substage 6 represents the transition from motor-based action to symbolic thought. Look for options that involve mental concepts, such as "symbolic means" and "make-believe play."

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Jean Piaget divided the sensorimotor stage of cognitive development (from birth to 2 years) into six distinct substages, marking the transition from simple reflexes to symbolic thought.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Substage 6 is called Mental Representation or Internalization of Schemes (occurring from 18 to 24 months).
- During this final sensorimotor substage, toddlers develop the ability to use internal mental symbols (representations) to think about objects and actions.
- This cognitive shift is characterized by:
1. Solving problems through symbolic means: Toddlers can think through a problem internally to find a solution, rather than relying on physical trial-and-error (which is characteristic of Substage 5). Hence, (A) is correct.
2. Deferred imitation and make-believe/pretend play: Toddlers can mentally represent events and act them out later, initiating pretend play. Hence, (D) is correct.
- Standard physical trial-and-error (B) and basic sensorimotor cause-and-effect (C) emerge in earlier substages.

Step 3: Final Answer
The characteristics that first appear in the sixth sensorimotor substage are (A) and (D). The correct option is (B).