At what age does the formal operational stage of cognitive development begin?

The formal operational stage of cognitive development, according to Piaget's theory, begins around the age of 12 years. This stage is characterized by the ability to think abstractly, logically, and systematically. Children in this stage can engage in hypothetical reasoning and understand complex concepts, moving beyond the concrete operational stage that precedes it.

By the age of 12, individuals start to utilize deductive reasoning and can consider multiple perspectives in problem-solving situations. This cognitive shift allows them to apply logic to various contexts and to plan for the future more effectively. Thus, the selection of the age 12 as the beginning of the formal operational stage aligns with established developmental psychology principles.