At what age does the formal operational stage of cognitive development begin?

The formal operational stage of cognitive development begins at approximately 11 years of age and continues into adulthood. This stage, as described by Jean Piaget, is characterized by the emergence of abstract thinking and the ability to perform operations on concepts and ideas rather than just concrete objects. Individuals in this stage can think hypothetically, deduce consequences, and engage in systematic planning. For example, they can solve problems that involve abstract concepts such as freedom, justice, and morality, rather than just tangible items.

In contrast, the other stages described in the incorrect options represent different phases in Piaget's theory. The sensory motor stage (0-2 years) is focused on developing basic motor skills and understanding the world through sensory experiences. The preoperational stage (2-7 years) involves the development of language and symbolic thinking but is still limited by egocentrism and a lack of logical reasoning. The concrete operational stage (7-11 years) marks a period where children begin to think logically about concrete events, but they still struggle with abstract or hypothetical reasoning. Therefore, the correct answer that signifies the beginning of the formal operational stage is 11 years and older.