A possible fifth stage of cognitive development that characterizes adult thinking is "_____ thought."
A) preformal
B) semiformal
C) informal
D) postformal

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Postformal thinking goes beyond abstract or logical thinking that characterizes previous stages of cognitive development. It involves the ability to cope with inconsistencies, paradoxes, uncertainties, and other complexities of adult life through dialectical thinking, relativistic thinking, pragmatic thinking, and reflective thinking. It also involves the integration of emotion, intuition, values, and context in problem-solving and decision-making. While not all adults reach this stage, postformal thinking is considered a potential achievement of cognitive development beyond adolescence.

A Possible Fifth Stage of Cognitive Development That Characterizes Adult