In which stage of Piaget's theory do children develop deductive reasoning?

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In Piaget's theory of cognitive development, deductive reasoning emerges in the formal operational stage, which typically begins around the age of 12 and continues into adulthood. This stage is characterized by the ability to think abstractly and systematically, allowing individuals to formulate hypotheses and draw logical conclusions from general principles. Deductive reasoning is a higher-order cognitive process that involves applying general rules to specific instances, showcasing a greater understanding of complex relationships between various concepts.

During the formal operational stage, individuals can think critically, solve problems systematically, and engage in logical reasoning. This cognitive capability reflects the growing sophistication in abstract thought processes, distinguishing this stage from earlier stages where such reasoning abilities are limited or still developing. The other stages do not support the development of deductive reasoning to this extent, as they focus on more concrete forms of understanding and problem-solving.