Causal Attribution (Blicket Detector)
Child observes which objects activate a novel machine (the 'blicket detector') and infers which objects have the hidden causal property. Used to study early causal-mechanism learning, screening-off, and Bayesian causal-graph reasoning in preschoolers. Generalizes to a broad family of multi-agent / multi-cue causal-responsibility judgements.
- Developmental
- Reasoning
Indexed implementations 3
Metadata only — each row links to the authors' own page. A date in the last column is the last time an automated check confirmed the link loads; it is not a review of the task.
| Implementation | Source | Languages | Link checked |
|---|---|---|---|
| Join Adventures with Amy, Ben, and other friends! · Children Helping Science | Children Helping Science | English | 2026-05-18 |
| Join Adventures with Robots and Clowns! · Children Helping Science | Children Helping Science | English | 2026-05-18 |
| Join Adventures with drums and balloons! · Children Helping Science | Children Helping Science | English | 2026-05-18 |
Key references
- Gopnik, A., & Sobel, D. M. (2000). Detecting blickets: How young children use information about novel causal powers in categorization and induction. Child Development, 71(5), 1205-1222. doi:10.1111/1467-8624.00224