Question

In 3-4 paragraphs, define formal and post-formal thought. Describe the characteristics that distinguish them. What do you see as the strengths and weaknesses of each way of thinking?

Answer 1

Formal thought starts at the earlier years of a person's life, say from teenage to early adulthood period. During this period people develop ability to think about abstract concepts. Logical thought, deductive reasoning and systematic planning skills also emerge in this period. Postformal thoughts arise in later stage of life where the individual has thoughts that are more flexible, logical, willing to accept moral and intellectual complexities.

Formal thought involves making decisions based on experiences and logic. Post-formal thought is more complex and involves making decisions based on circumstances and integrating emotions with logic.People have formal thought at earlier age while they have post formal thought at later age.

Strength of formal thought includes the fact that it is less complex and has a greater logical base. Hence it is easier to make decisions purely based on logic and experiences.Weakness of formal thought includes the fact that decisions are not taken according to social interaction. It is non-mouldable according to situations. Hence it is less effective.

Strength of post formal thought is that it is mouldable and a person takes decisions with systematic planning and proper analysis. Hence the decisions are more effective. Weakness of post formal thought is that a lot of factors could affect the thought and reaching a decision becomes complex. This complexity is confusing and sometimes exhausting.