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A cognitive theory of pretense
1Department of Philosophy, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424, USA. nichols@cofc.edu
Cognition
|January 5, 2000
Summary
This study introduces a new cognitive theory of pretense, proposing a "Possible World Box" in the mind for pretense representations. This model explains pretend play behavior driven by real desires, offering a more complete account of pretense.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Philosophy of Mind
Background:
- Existing theories of pretense lack detailed cognitive explanations.
- Pretense involves complex mental representations and behaviors in both children and adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present an explicit cognitive account of pretense.
- To develop a theory that accommodates key features of pretense observed in real-world examples.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of real-world examples of pretense in children and adults.
- Development of a cognitive model involving a "Possible World Box" and a "Script Elaborator".
Main Results:
- Pretense representations are housed in a distinct mental workspace, the "Possible World Box".
- Pretense representations share representational codes and processing mechanisms with beliefs.
- Pretend play behavior is motivated by real desires, not "pretend desires".
Conclusions:
- The proposed cognitive model offers a comprehensive explanation for the central features of pretense.
- This account addresses limitations in alternative theories of pretense.