AP PSYCHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -ToM is the ability to infer and understand another’s mental state (the beliefs, thoughts, intentions and feelings of another), and use this information to explain and predict human behavior.

Detailed explanation-2: -Theory of mind allows one to attribute thoughts, desires, and intentions to others, to predict or explain their actions, and to posit their intentions. It enables one to understand that mental states can be the cause of-and so can be used to explain and predict-the behavior of others.

Detailed explanation-3: -Theory of mind (ToM) is defined as the ability to understand and take into account another individual’s mental state or of “mind-reading” (Premack and Woodruff, 1978).

Detailed explanation-4: -Theory of mind refers to the abilities underlying the capacity to reason about one’s own and others’ mental states. This ability is critical for predicting and making sense of the actions of others, is essential for efficient communication, fosters social learning, and provides the foundation for empathic concern.