Final answer:
Perspective taking is the ability to consider another person's point of view and is closely related to theory of mind, which is important for social interactions and cognitive empathy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ability to consider another person's point of view, feelings, and desires is called perspective taking. This skill is a critical component of social problem solving and avoiding conflicts. Children develop this skill as they interact with others and come to understand that different people have different thoughts and feelings, a concept known as theory of mind (ToM). Cognitive empathy is closely related to perspective taking, and it generally begins to increase in adolescence, helping individuals better understand the perspective of others.