PSYCHOLOGICAL FEATURES OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF THINKING IN A VIRTUAL ENVIRONMENT
Keywords:
virtual environment, cognitive development, adolescent thinking, digital cognition, attention, perception, problem-solving, metacognition, virtual interaction, psychological impactAbstract
This article examines the psychological characteristics of cognitive development in virtual environments, focusing on how immersive digital spaces influence the structure, dynamics, and quality of thinking processes. The study aims to analyze the socio-psychological and cognitive mechanisms through which virtual interaction reshapes attention, perception, problem-solving, and reflective thinking among adolescents and young adults. Drawing on both theoretical frameworks and empirical data, the research highlights the transformative role of virtual environments as both cognitive enhancers and potential sources of cognitive distortion. The findings suggest that virtual engagement contributes to the development of flexible and adaptive thinking while simultaneously posing risks to depth of analysis and sustained attention. The study underscores the importance of integrating psychological and pedagogical strategies to optimize cognitive outcomes in virtual contexts.
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