Final answer:
The inability to distinguish between one's own perspective and someone else's is known as egocentrism, a concept identified by Jean Piaget. Children typically outgrow this state as they develop theory of mind, which increases with age, especially during adolescence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The inability to distinguish between one's own perspective and the perspective of another is defined as egocentrism. Jean Piaget described young children as egocentric, meaning that they cannot understand that other people have views and feelings that are different from their own. This cognitive limitation is evident when a child chooses a gift for others based on their own preferences, presuming that others share the same tastes. As children grow older, they gradually develop theory of mind, which is the recognition that others have distinct thoughts, feelings, and beliefs. During adolescence, the increasing cognitive empathy is an essential part of social problem-solving and avoiding conflicts.