Mental Health Technician Certification (AMCA) Practice Test

According to Erikson's theory, a 4-year-old client imitating the actions of the provider is displaying characteristics of which development stage?

1. Sensorimotor

2. Preoperational

3. Concrete operational

4. Genital locomotor

The correct answer is: Genital locomotor

A 4-year-old client imitating the actions of the provider is exhibiting characteristics typical of the preoperational stage of cognitive development, as described by Erik Erikson. During this stage, which occurs approximately between the ages of 2 and 7, children are beginning to engage in symbolic play and can represent objects and events in their minds. Imitation is a key aspect of learning during this phase; children often mimic the actions and behaviors of adults and peers, which aids in their social and cognitive development. This imitative behavior showcases the child's ability to use symbols and engage with their environment creatively. Children at this age are also developing their understanding of the world around them and how to interact with it, which is why you see them mimicking the adults they observe. Such actions reflect their burgeoning self-concept and understanding that they can influence their surroundings through behavior. The other stages listed apply to different age groups or developmental tasks. The sensorimotor stage, typically from birth to about 2 years, involves learning through senses and actions but not yet through imitation in the way described. The concrete operational stage, which occurs from about 7 to 11 years of age, involves logical thinking about concrete objects but does not prominently feature the imaginative play