theory of mind
Definition
Theory of mind refers to the ability to draw inferences about the mental states of others, anticipate their behaviour, and communicate more efficiently, with a crucial component being the attribution of false beliefs to other agents. In childhood development, theory of mind emerges through behavioural precursors including eye contact, joint attention, imitation and pretend-play. Recent conceptualisations propose a 'submentalising' model where full-scale theory of mind results from multiple independent social-cognitive components working together.
Sources: Tsomokos & Flouri (2023)
Related Terms
Applications
Theory of Mind and Risk Adjustment
Superior social cognitive abilities in childhood are positively associated with the ability to adjust reward-seeking strategies during decision-making in adolescence, and this association persists even after controlling for individual and family factors.
Sources: Tsomokos & Flouri (2023)
Theory of Mind and Cognitive Flexibility
Early social cognitive abilities specifically predict the ability to adjust strategies based on feedback, suggesting a link to cognitive flexibility.
Sources: Tsomokos & Flouri (2023)
