Final answer:
True, social cognition encompasses how children think about their social worlds, including social relationships and behaviors, and is closely connected with the development of theory-of-mind (TOM) and cognitive empathy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Social cognition indeed refers to how children think about their social worlds, the quality of their social relationships, and their social behaviors. This concept encompasses the development of a child's ability to understand that other people have different thoughts, beliefs, and feelings - a cognitive milestone known as theory of mind (TOM). By developing TOM, children recognize that others may hold beliefs that are different from their own, marking a significant stage in social cognitive development. The socialization process, in which children learn about societal norms, objects, and ideas, also plays a critical role in shaping their social cognition.
As theorized by Jean Piaget, cognitive development and social interactions are connected, influencing the development of the self within a social context. Notable stages include the sensorimotor stage where children learn through sensory and motor behavior, and later stages where children develop an understanding of the generalized other and begin to form a concept of self. Cognitive empathy, which is an extension of TOM, increases in adolescence and is significant for social problem-solving and avoiding conflicts.