Question

Describe how the imaginary audience and the personal fable reflect adolescents’ cognitive development

THIS IS PSYCHOLOGY

Answer 1

The Adolescent Egocentrism is a cognitive developmental theory proposed by Albert Elkind, which carried forward the Piagetian concept of cognitive development, described the conept of "imaginary audience" and the " personal fable". During the developmental stage of adolescence, the teens or the adolescents become very conscious that they are constantly watched and observed by the people around them,this is imaginary audience. They give themselves a lot importance and also believe that they others consider them to be unique and special,this is personal fable.

This high thinking of themselves or the egocentric thinking helps them to develop their own self identities, take care of themselves in a better way and develop their personalities. Because a teen feels he/she is constantly watched and observed they become cautious while interacting with others, they develop mannerisms, so that they are not criticized. They spent hours on refining their looks and follow the latest trends in fashion, as they feel they are important.

Thus, this egocentrism is a normal phase of adolescence, which is important to discover the unique identity of oneself and also, helps in the process of socialization.