Which stage of cognitive development is characterized by thinking abstractly?

The stage of cognitive development characterized by thinking abstractly is the formal operational stage. This stage, which typically begins around age 12 and continues into adulthood, allows individuals to reason logically about hypothetical situations, think about abstract concepts, and engage in systematic problem-solving. Unlike earlier stages, where thinking is more concrete and based on direct experiences, the formal operational stage enables individuals to manipulate ideas in their mind, consider possibilities, and use deductive reasoning.

In contrast, the concrete operational stage focuses on logical thinking applied to concrete objects and situations but lacks the ability to think abstractly or hypothetically. The preoperational stage is marked by symbolic thinking and egocentrism, yet it does not include the capacity for abstract reasoning. Lastly, the sensorimotor stage is characterized by learning through direct sensory and motor contact, laying the groundwork for later cognitive development, but is not involved with abstract thinking at all.