What is the term for when two or more people focus on the same object?

The term for when two or more people focus on the same object is Joint Attention. This concept is especially important in developmental psychology and is fundamental for social interaction. Joint attention typically emerges in infants around 9 to 12 months of age, marking a critical phase in their social and cognitive development. It involves not just looking at the same object but also recognizing that both individuals are attending to that object, which plays a crucial role in language development, communication, and forming social bonds.

Through joint attention, individuals can share experiences and understand each other's perspectives, fostering collaborative learning and mutual engagement. This shared focus lays the foundation for effective communication and learning because it allows for the exchange of information about the object being attended to, such as labeling items, sharing thoughts, or expressing feelings.