Disequilibrium occurs when

• A. Two schemata are contradictory and reorganization is necessary
• B. The learner reaches equilibrium
• C. New information fits existing schemas
• D. There is no cognitive conflict

Answer: (A)

Disequilibrium is the experience of cognitive conflict that occurs when new information clashes with what you already know. In Piagetian terms, schemata are the mental structures you use to understand the world. When two schemata are contradictory, your current understanding can’t explain the new experience, so you feel off-balance. This mismatch triggers a reorganization of your thinking—typically through accommodation, where you modify existing schemata to fit the new information and restore balance with what you’re encountering.

If the new information fits your existing schemata, you experience assimilation instead, and you move toward equilibrium. If there’s no conflict, things stay in balance. Reaching equilibrium is what comes after you’ve adapted your thinking, not the moment of encountering the mismatch.