Which psychologist is most associated with theories of cognitive development in children?

Jean Piaget is the psychologist most associated with theories of cognitive development in children due to his pioneering work in understanding how children's thinking evolves over time. He proposed a developmental theory that includes four key stages: the sensorimotor stage, preoperational stage, concrete operational stage, and formal operational stage. Each stage represents a different level of cognitive functioning and illustrates how children acquire knowledge, learn to think, and understand the world around them as they grow.

Piaget's emphasis on hands-on learning and the active role of the child in their cognitive development has influenced educational practices and the way we approach teaching and learning at various developmental stages. His insights into how children construct knowledge and the importance of developmental readiness are foundational concepts in developmental psychology.

The other psychologists listed, while significant in their respective fields, focus on different aspects of psychological theory. Sigmund Freud is primarily known for his theories of psychosexual development and the unconscious mind. John Bowlby is recognized for his attachment theory, which explores the bond between children and their caregivers. Lev Vygotsky developed the sociocultural theory of cognitive development, emphasizing social interaction and cultural context, but his focus and contributions differ from those of Piaget's structured stages of cognitive development.