Theory of Mind is a theory of psychological and developmental roots that is defined by the ability of a child to attribute mental states such as beliefs, feelings, knowledge, thoughts, intents to oneself and others and to understand that others have beliefs and feelings that are different than one’s own. The diagram below represents the five foundational components of theory of mind that emerge between ages 2 and 5 that were shared in Chapter 6 of our course text, Cognitive development of children: Research and application . Understanding this developmental sequence is critical in being able to support children as they grow and develop cognitively.

For this discussion, choose one of the scenarios below to create an example for:

• Option 1: Provide an example of one conceptual perspective-taking challenge a child faces when interacting with teachers and peers upon entry into preschool or kindergarten.
• Option 2: Provide an example of how 3- and 4-year-old children’s gullibility places them at risk.
• Option 3: Provide an example of either a drawback or benefit of trying to accelerate preschoolers’ understanding of deception.
• Option 4: Provide an example of how you can apply Theory of Mind to understanding symptoms associated with either autism or Asperger’s disorders.

Next, complete the Week Three Discussion Two Web Template by placing your example in the center of the web and including your answer to each of the questions that are posted within the outside bubbles of the web. Finally, in a three to four sentence summary, evaluate how the information in your web supports the relationship between Theory of Mind and other developmental domains. Make sure to post your summary and attach your Week Three Discussion Two Web Template to your initial reply.

Guided Response: Respond to at least two of your peers. In your responses, share one activity for a specific developmental domain that supports the stage of Theory of Mind that is represented in their example. Make sure to not only explain the activity, but also to describe how it would support children in that stage of Theory of Mind. Though two replies is the basic expectation, for deeper engagement and learning, you are encouraged to provide responses to any comments or questions others have given to you. This will further the conversation and provide you with opportunities to demonstrate your content expertise, critical thinking, and real-world experiences with this topic.
                        Ashford University Discussion