Theory of Mind
Understanding that others have thoughts, beliefs, knowledge, and intentions different from one's own (emerging at ages 4-5).
Examples & Achievements
- Understands that someone can hold a false belief
- Realizes that a friend might want a different toy than they want
- Can explain why someone might feel differently about a situation
- Understands that someone who did not see something happen does not know about it
- Begins to understand deception and surprise
How to Measure
- Classic false belief task (Sally-Anne or equivalent) - passes at age 4-5
- Unexpected contents task (Smarties box with pencils inside)
- Can explain why a character in a story feels a certain way based on their knowledge/perspective
- Diverse desires task (understanding others want different things)
Sources (3)
- Piaget
- Vygotsky
- Developmental Psychology Research