In Piaget's development theory, what stage follows the concrete operational stage?

In Piaget's theory of cognitive development, the stage that follows the concrete operational stage is the formal operational stage. During the concrete operational stage, which typically occurs between ages 7 and 11, children begin to think logically about concrete events, understand the concept of conservation, and can manipulate numbers and symbols more effectively. They, however, struggle with abstract and hypothetical concepts.

The formal operational stage, which usually starts around age 12 and continues into adulthood, is characterized by the ability to think abstractly, logically, and systematically. Individuals in this stage can understand hypothetical situations and use deductive reasoning. They can also contemplate possibilities and engage in more complex problem-solving.

This transition from concrete operational to formal operational thinking is crucial as it marks the development of higher-order thinking skills. Understanding this progression can help in recognizing how cognitive abilities evolve and the implications for education and psychological assessments.