The Gradual Emergence of Meta-Self-Awareness: A Developmental Hypothesis
Jewelle Mhae
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) October 30, 2026 preprint DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.23812355 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper |
|---|---|
| Key points | Proposes that meta-self-awareness develops gradually across childhood rather than appearing as an all-or-nothing switch, progressing from sensory curiosity and social mimicry to personal self-awareness, with a critical integration of theory of mind and self-reflection around ages 4 to 5. |
Abstract
This paper presents a conceptual developmental framework exploring how human children transition from imitation-based learning to independent, self-directed thought. Rather than treating consciousness as an all-or-nothing switch, this hypothesis proposes that meta-self-awareness—the capacity to reflect on one's own mind while recognizing that others possess distinct perspectives—emerges gradually across childhood. The framework outlines a progression from basic sensory curiosity and early social mimicry to personal self-awareness and the critical shift around ages 4 to 5, where children integrate theory of mind and self-reflection. By examining how internal representation evolves, this work offers an independent perspective on cognitive development and pre-verbal mental transitions.