Question

Which of the following is a difference between formal operational thought and postformal thought?

A) realistic thinking
B) abstract thinking
C) logical thinking
D) idealistic thinking

Answer 1

The difference between formal operational thought and postformal thought lies in how individuals make decisions and think about abstract ideas.

Step-by-step explanation:

The difference between formal operational thought and postformal thought lies in how individuals make decisions and think about abstract ideas.

In formal operational thought, which develops during adolescence, individuals can think logically, consider multiple points of view, and imagine hypothetical situations. They can also engage in abstract thinking to problem solve and consider alternative solutions.

In postformal thought, which is a stage that some psychologists suggest exists beyond formal operational thought, decisions are made based on context and situations. Logic is integrated with emotion as adults develop principles that depend on the specific circumstances.

Answer 2

The difference between formal operational and postformal thought lies in the integration of emotion with logic in postformal thought, where realistic thinking is employed to solve problems by considering context and experience.

Step-by-step explanation:

The primary difference between formal operational thought and postformal thought can be seen in the type of thinking applied to real-world situations. Formal operational thought, which is the fourth stage in Piaget's theory of cognitive development, encompasses abstract, logical, and idealistic thinking and develops from about age 11 onward. This stage allows individuals to engage in hypothetical reasoning and to think about concepts like freedom abstractly. However, individuals in the postformal thought stage, which some developmental psychologists argue follows the formal operational stage, integrate logical thinking with emotion and recognize that the best approach to a problem often depends on the context in which it appears. For example, an emotional issue might require considering personal relationships and past experiences when deciding the best course of action. Therefore, the correct answer to the question would be (A) realistic thinking, as postformal thought includes the ability to use wisdom and practical approaches to problem-solving that are not solely dependent on logical and abstract reasoning.