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Related Experiment Videos

Theory of mind and relational complexity.

Glenda Andrews1, Graeme S Halford, Katie M Bunch

  • 1School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Queensland, Australia. g.andrews@griffith.gu.edu.au

Child Development
|October 14, 2003
PubMed
Summary

Cognitive complexity theories explain development in theory of mind (TOM) by complexity. Studies show simpler tasks and relational complexity predict TOM skills in young children, highlighting complexity

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Area of Science:

  • Developmental Psychology
  • Cognitive Science
  • Cognitive Development

Background:

  • Theory of Mind (TOM) development is often explained by cognitive complexity.
  • Relational Complexity Theory and Control Theory propose complexity as a driver of TOM changes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of cognitive complexity in the development of Theory of Mind (TOM).
  • To test predictions derived from complexity theories regarding TOM acquisition in young children.

Main Methods:

  • Three studies involved 3-, 4-, and 5-year-olds completing TOM tasks (false belief, appearance-reality).
  • Participants also performed less complex connection (Level 1 perspective-taking) and transformation tasks, alongside binary-relational and ternary-relational predictor tasks.
  • Task content was matched to TOM tasks where possible, with predictor tasks using different content.

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Main Results:

  • Simpler connection and transformation tasks were mastered earlier than TOM tasks, supporting complexity theories.
  • Predictor tasks explained over 80% of age-related variance in TOM performance.
  • Ternary-relational complexity tasks significantly predicted TOM variance, even after controlling for age and binary-relational tasks.

Conclusions:

  • Developmental changes in Theory of Mind are significantly influenced by cognitive and relational complexity.
  • Predictor tasks, particularly those involving ternary-relational complexity, are crucial for understanding age-related gains in TOM.
  • Hierarchical structure is not necessary for complexity-based prediction of TOM development.