Proposes that reasoning ability develops in four sequential and interconnected stages from childhood to adulthood. Some main elements of the theory are schema, assimilation, and accommodation. Hutchison (2015) describes schema as “an internalized representation of the world or an ingrained, systematic pattern of thinking, acting, and problem solving (p. 119). Dan has developed a certain pattern throughout his life, which includes his belief that people should achieve great success, respect and obey authority, and that men are responsible for women. Assimilation occurs when an individual reacts to an experience based on prevailing schemas (Hutchison, 2015). Accommodation occurs when a person adapts their schemas to a new situation in which the old schemas could not relate. After observing Dan's case, I can see that he is assimilating to every situation and struggles to adapt to a new situation that does not fit his existing patterns. When Dan's friends and family present ideas that counter his patterns, Dan appears to become frustrated, anxious, and sad. Dan's lack of accommodation is creating conflict in his