Symbolic Representation

Symbolic representation refers to the way our minds use symbols—like words, images, or sounds—to stand for concepts or ideas. Just as a word represents a specific object or action, our mental images or thoughts can symbolize more complex ideas. For instance, the word "dog" evokes an idea of a dog, not just the letters D-O-G. In mental representation, these symbols help us think about and communicate complex information, allowing us to process experiences, remember events, and solve problems without needing the actual objects or situations present.