Which development stage is characterized by the ability to think abstractly and critically?

The formal operational stage is characterized by the ability to think abstractly and critically, typically emerging around the age of 12 and continuing into adulthood. During this stage, individuals develop the ability to use logic to solve hypothetical problems, think about abstract concepts, and engage in systematic planning. This includes thinking about possibilities and considering multiple perspectives, which allows for more complex reasoning and problem-solving compared to earlier stages.

In contrast, the concrete operational stage, which occurs between roughly ages 7 to 11, involves thinking logically about concrete events but struggles with abstract concepts. The preoperational stage, occurring from approximately ages 2 to 7, is marked by an inability to perform operations on logical rules, and thinking is largely intuitive and egocentric. The sensorimotor stage, from birth to about 2 years, is focused on physical interactions with the environment and lacks abstract thought entirely. This understanding of cognitive development stages emphasizes the significant leap in reasoning capabilities that occurs in the formal operational stage, solidifying it as the correct answer.