Which term describes the changes in thought processes throughout a person's life?

Cognitive development is the term that specifically refers to the changes in thought processes that occur throughout a person's life. This concept encompasses various aspects of thinking, such as understanding, reasoning, problem-solving, and memory. Cognitive development is influenced by factors such as age, experience, and social interactions, and it can be observed in the progression from simple to more complex thought patterns as individuals grow.

Key theories in cognitive development, such as those proposed by Jean Piaget, outline stages through which children and adults move as they mature. For instance, Piaget categorized cognitive development into distinct stages, highlighting how children's thinking evolves with age and experience. This progression affects how they understand the world, process information, and interact with their environment.

In contrast, social development pertains to the way individuals learn to interact with others and form relationships, emotional development focuses on how individuals recognize and manage their emotions, and physical development refers to bodily growth and changes in motor skills. While these areas are crucial for overall development, the specific focus on intellectual growth and thought processes clearly aligns with the definition of cognitive development.