Exploring the development of symbolic function: Present understanding and future directions.

As a discussant in this symposium, I will highlight several key points from the contributions of Ivic, Rodríguez, and Duran that underscore the multifaceted nature of the development of symbolic function. Reflecting on Ivic’s original perspective on origins of symbolic function, I will discuss the importance of different theoretical frameworks in understanding such a complex phenomenon, as well as the role of research on the social brain. Additionally, I will raise questions about the future development of symbolic function and its potential relationship with the recent explosive growth of ICT as a new form of symbolic reality. Rodríguez’s contribution offers valuable insights into the social mechanisms driving symbolic behaviors in early childhood. An inspiring aspect of her work is the role that social and cultural contexts play in the development of symbolic function, bearing in mind her argument that norms governing object use in everyday life are sources of the development of symbolic behavior in children. Duran’s exploration of symbolic play’s relationship to metacognition is also intriguing, especially given that metacognitive skills are commonly associated with adolescence. By linking symbolic play to the development of higher-order cognitive functions, Duran invites further investigation into how symbolic play facilitates cognitive growth. Together, these perspectives provide a fresh and comprehensive view of symbolic function. This phenomenon plays a vital role in our understanding of human development, especially when we consider Ivic’s point about its roots in multiple developmental domains and the complex interconnections that shape its trajectory and influence on higher psychological functions.