Final answer:
The cognitive ability that distinguishes adolescents in Piaget's formal operational stage from adults is a. abstract thinking, with adolescents being capable of problem-solving using abstract and hypothetical concepts while adults may further develop postformal thought.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Piaget's theory of cognitive development, the cognitive ability that distinguishes adolescents from adults during the formal operational stage is abstract thinking. Adolescents in this stage can comprehend abstract concepts and hypothetical scenarios, allowing them to engage in problem-solving and evaluating multiple solutions and outcomes. While adolescents are capable of formal operational thought, adults often progress to a potential fifth stage, known as postformal thought, which integrates both emotion and logic in decision making, suggesting more maturity and sophistication in handling complex, emotionally charged issues.
During adolescence, individuals develop the ability to consider various perspectives, imagine possible situations, and construct new ideas. This move beyond concrete thinking to abstract enables teenagers to debate ideas and challenge established norms, deepening their cognitive flexibility and reasoning skills.
However, cognitive development does not culminate at adolescence. Research suggests that cognitive maturation, particularly in terms of insight and judgment, continues into the early 20s, marking further differences between adolescents and adults in cognitive capabilities.