What term describes the inability of teenagers to distinguish between what they think others believe about them and what others actually think?

The term that describes the inability of teenagers to distinguish between their own perceptions of what they believe others think about them and the actual thoughts or opinions of others is Adolescent Egocentrism. This concept reflects a developmental stage where teenagers can become overly focused on themselves and their own feelings, leading to a heightened belief that they are the center of attention or that their experiences are uniquely significant.

During this period, young people often overestimate the extent to which others are paying attention to them and their actions, which can contribute to feelings of self-consciousness and anxiety. They may misinterpret social situations based on their assumptions rather than objective observations, which is characteristic of egocentric thinking. This is a normal part of cognitive development in adolescence as they navigate complex social environments and try to establish their identities. Understanding this concept is crucial for recognizing the challenges that teenagers face as they develop their social skills and self-perception.