Ricardo and Mona are new research assistants in a developmental psychology laboratory in a university. They were asked by their professor to gather relevant research on emotional development. Through their literature review, they learned that the ability to engage in pretend play and using first-person pronouns such as 1. me, mine, and myself are usually indications that the child has developed:
mistrust of others.
self-acceptance.
self-recognition.
self-tolerance
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is self-recognition.
Self-recognition is the ability of a child to recognize themselves as an individual distinct from others. This stage of emotional development typically occurs in the early childhood years. One of the key indicators of self-recognition is the ability to engage in pretend play, where a child can differentiate between themselves and the characters or roles they are playing. Pretend play allows children to explore their own identity and demonstrate an understanding of their self-concept.
Additionally, using first-person pronouns such as “me,” “mine,” and “myself” is another sign that a child has developed self-recognition. These pronouns reflect the child’s awareness of themselves as a separate entity from others, indicating that they understand their personal identity and can express it linguistically.
This stage is an important milestone in a child’s emotional development. It shows that the child is not only aware of their physical self but also capable of reflecting on their thoughts, feelings, and desires. The ability to use pronouns like “me” or “myself” signifies that the child has developed a sense of autonomy and individuality, which is central to self-concept formation.
Self-recognition is a foundational component of social and emotional development, as it helps children navigate social interactions, form relationships, and develop empathy. Without this sense of self, children would struggle to understand others’ perspectives or engage in complex social behaviors like sharing or cooperation.