Three theories of egocentric speech: A contrastive analysis

Abstract

Three theories of egocentric speech are contrasted. Alternative predictions of the same phenomenon by the theories of Piaget, Vygotsky and a prototheoretical position associated with Mead, Flavell and Wilder are subjected to empirical evaluation. The Mead‐Flavell‐Wilder prototheory proved to be the most predictive. Weaknesses in its explanatory power are explored. Some assumptions remain to be tested before the contrast is complete.