Final answer:
Steve is in the Formal operational stage of Piaget's stages of human intellectual development, which involves the ability to think abstractly and critically without needing parental guidance.The correct option is D.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Piaget, Steve is in the Formal operational stage of human intellectual development.
During this stage, which typically starts from around age 12 and continues into adulthood, individuals develop the ability to think abstractly, logically, and systematically.
They can consider hypothetical situations and use deductive reasoning to solve problems, which explains Steve's ability to think critically and evaluate outcomes without needing to consult his parents.The correct option is D.