Egocentrism: Understanding Self-Centered Thinking in Development

Egocentrism is the tendency to view the world from one’s own perspective, without recognising that others may have different viewpoints, thoughts, or feelings. First introduced by psychologist Jean Piaget, egocentrism is most evident in young children, especially during the preoperational stage (ages 2–7). In this phase, children often assume that others share the same thoughts, preferences, and emotions they do. For instance, a child might assume that because they enjoy a certain toy, everyone else must enjoy it too, not realising that others may have different tastes.

While egocentrism is a normal part of cognitive development, it can continue to affect individuals throughout life, especially in situations involving emotional stress, conflict, or personal bias. Adults can still exhibit egocentric thinking when dealing with complex emotions, making it difficult to see things from other people’s perspectives. In today’s digital age, egocentrism may also be reinforced by social media, where individuals curate their personal experiences and interactions in ways that highlight their own point of view, further encouraging a self-centered worldview.

As individuals mature, they typically move beyond egocentrism and develop theory of mind—the ability to understand that others have their own distinct thoughts, feelings, and intentions. This shift is crucial for social interactions, as it enables people to engage with others in more meaningful ways, practice empathy, and navigate complex social situations. In fact, developing the ability to take others’ perspectives is key to emotional regulation and building healthy relationships.

While egocentrism naturally decreases with age, it can still influence how we perceive the world, especially in moments of stress or conflict. Becoming aware of when egocentric thinking is at play can help individuals become more empathetic and open-minded. By practicing active listening, encouraging open dialogue, and being mindful of others’ experiences, we can reduce the impact of egocentrism and foster better communication and understanding.