What does the term "object permanence" refer to in developmental psychology?

The term "object permanence" refers to the cognitive understanding that objects continue to exist even when they cannot be seen, heard, or otherwise sensed. This concept is a key milestone in cognitive development, particularly in infants, and is typically developed around 8 to 12 months of age. It signifies a child's understanding that their environment is stable and that people and objects retain their existence despite being out of sight.

This understanding is crucial for various aspects of development, including attachment to caregivers, exploration of the environment, and later complex cognitive tasks. For example, if a toy is hidden under a blanket, a child with developed object permanence will search for it, demonstrating their belief that the toy still exists even though they cannot currently see it.

The other options, while related to cognitive development, do not accurately define object permanence. Understanding numbers pertains to numerical cognition, manipulating symbols relates to language and literacy, and recognizing physical changes in matter involves scientific reasoning. Each of these areas represents different cognitive skills that develop throughout childhood but are distinct from the specific concept of object permanence.