What period in Piaget's theory represents the final stage of cognitive development?

In Piaget's theory of cognitive development, the final stage is known as the formal operations stage. This stage typically begins around the age of 11 and continues into adulthood. During this period, individuals develop the ability to think abstractly, reason logically, and plan systematically. They can contemplate hypothetical situations and use deductive reasoning, which allows them to solve complex problems that require thinking beyond concrete, tangible concepts.

The formal operations stage is characterized by a greater capacity for higher-order thinking, including the ability to consider multiple variables and formulate hypotheses. This contrasts sharply with previous stages, where thinking is more limited and often centered around direct experiences and concrete objects. Thus, recognizing this stage is crucial for understanding how individuals transition into more sophisticated and abstract levels of thinking, which are essential for advanced problem-solving and understanding complex ideas.