Final answer:
Substage 2 of the sensorimotor stage involves the development of first habits and primary circular reactions in infants from 1 to 4 months old, highlighting the early stages of cognitive development as per Piaget's theory.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept in question refers specifically to Substage 2 of the sensorimotor stage, which is the first stage in Piaget's theory of cognitive development. This developmental stage occurs from birth to approximately 2 years of age. In Substage 2, covering the age range from 1 to 4 months, infants begin to develop the first habits and primary circular reactions. These reactions are repetitive behaviors focused on the infant’s own body and often occur by chance initially before they become intentional as the child realizes that the behaviors can produce pleasurable or interesting results. For instance, a baby might suck their thumb by accident and then later intentionally repeat the action to recreate the pleasing sensation.
During this stage, babies learn about the world through their senses and motor behavior. They might use grasping reflexes to hold onto objects with a surprisingly strong grip, as this reflex is present at birth. A child’s cognitive development in this stage paves the way for further development, such as the understanding of object permanence, which typically starts to develop between 5 and 8 months old and fully established closer to the end of the sensorimotor stage.
Piaget's extensive research into the field of cognitive development has provided valuable insights into how children's thinking evolves over time. An example of cognitive progression during the sensorimotor stage includes the development of object permanence and the inability of a child to remember an object after it has been removed from sight. This understanding improves as the child approaches the end of the sensorimotor stage. Familiarity with these concepts is crucial for those studying developmental psychology or any field related to child development.