theory of mind

Categories: Site glossary

theory of mind is the ability, normally acquired as part of normal development in childhood, to appreciate that other people have mental states (e.g., beliefs, opinions, judgements) and that these may be different from our own; we use theory of mind to understand people's feelings, and to anticipate their responses and behaviours.

Author: Keith

Former school and college science teacher, teacher educator, research supervisor, and research methods lecturer. Emeritus Professor of Science Education at the University of Cambridge.