The rouge test is used to assess which aspect of development when a child recognizes their own reflection?

• A. Self-awareness
• B. Object permanence
• C. Egocentrism
• D. Reciprocity

Answer: (A)

Self-awareness is what the rouge test reveals. In this assessment, a small dab of rouge is placed on the child’s nose while they look in a mirror. If the child touches or otherwise examines their own nose in response to the reflection, it shows they understand the image in the mirror is themselves, not another person or object. This self-recognition typically emerges around 18 to 24 months and signals a developing sense of self as separate from others. Object permanence is about understanding that objects exist even when not seen, egocentrism is about not taking another’s perspective, and reciprocity concerns mutual social exchanges. None of those specifically measure recognizing one’s own reflection, so self-awareness is the best fit.