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symbolic function

in Piagetian theory, the cognitive ability to mentally represent objects that are not in sight. For example, a child playing with a toy can mentally picture and experience the toy even after it has been taken away and he or she can no longer see it. Symbolic function emerges early in the preoperational stage and is expressed through deferred imitation, language, symbolic play, and mental imagery. Also called semiotic function.

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Psychology term of the day

December 18th 2024

sport

sport

n.

1. a physical contest between individuals or teams that is conducted under codified rules, is controlled by nonparticipants, and can have only one winner.

2. in genetics, an organism that has undergone mutation and is distinctly different from its parents.