According to Piaget's theory, what ability develops in adolescents?

In Piaget's theory of cognitive development, adolescents transition into the formal operational stage, which typically begins around the age of 12 and continues into adulthood. This stage is significant because it marks the development of the ability to think abstractly and reason logically about hypothetical situations.

The ability to reason with respect to possibilities allows adolescents to engage in systematic planning and consider various outcomes, leading to more complex problem-solving skills. They can contemplate what might happen under different circumstances, weigh hypothetical scenarios, and think critically about the future. This capability is essential for developing skills such as scientific reasoning, moral reasoning, and strategic thinking.

This maturation in cognitive ability contrasts with earlier stages, like concrete operational thought, where reasoning is often limited to tangible events and experiences. Thus, the development of this reasoning ability is a hallmark of adolescence, enabling them to navigate more abstract concepts and possibilities effectively.