Theory of Mind in Preadolescents: Assessing the Effects of a Conversational Training

Studies on theory of mind (ToM) have traditionally focused on preschool age, neglecting preadolescence and adolescence. However, ToM skills are equally fundamental in these age groups given the continued development of mental abilities and their link to social success. The aim of this study is to measure any changes in ToM skills in a group of middle school students who participated in three intervention sessions that followed a conversational approach focused on perspective-taking and the inclusion of hospitalized children. This investigation is especially relevant after COVID-19 and its consequences among adolescents and preadolescents. The intervention had positive effects on students’ ToM levels, improving their ability to understand intentions and attribute mental states to other people. Future studies could provide a more comprehensive picture of the results by examining other aspects of adolescent socio-cognitive functioning. Data are discussed in terms of promoting well-being during this developmental period.