A nurse is assessing a 17-year-old adolescent's cognitive development. Which behavior indicates the adolescent has reached formal operations?

A) Uses play to understand surroundings
B) Discusses the topic of justice in society
C) Hits other students to deal with environmental change
D) Questions where the ice is hiding when ice has melted in a drink

Cognitive Development

The process by which an individual learns, acquires knowledge, and develops the ability to reason and understand their world.

Formal Operations

The final stage of cognitive development (according to Piaget), characterized by the ability to think abstractly, reason logically, and manage problems systematically.

Adolescence

Period in development between the onset of puberty and adulthood. It usually begins between 11 and 13 years of age.