Final answer:
The formal operational stage is Piaget's stage of cognitive development associated with adolescence or preadolescence, highlighting the ability to think abstractly and reason logically about hypothetical situations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The stage of Piaget's cognitive development theory that best fits adolescence or preadolescence is the formal operational stage. Adolescents, starting around age 11, enter this stage where they develop the ability to think abstractly and to understand hypothetical situations. This stage is characterized by the capacity for advanced reasoning, including the ability to explore multiple hypotheses, engage in scientific thinking, and consider abstract concepts such as love, justice, and freedom.During the formal operational stage, adolescents become capable of abstract thinking and are no longer limited to thinking only about concrete events, unlike in the concrete operational stage (7 to 11 years old). They move beyond the here-and-now and start to think about the future, formulating theories and using logical reasoning to solve problems. This stage of cognitive development enables them to engage in complex thought processes and debate ideas such as ethics and politics, considering possibilities that extend beyond their personal experiences.In conclusion, the formal operational stage is the period in which adolescence or preadolescence is typically placed within Piaget's framework of cognitive development. It is a time of significant growth in reasoning and intellectual abilities that allows for higher-level thinking and understanding.