Animism in psychology refers to the belief that natural phenomena or inanimate objects have lifelike qualities and possess feelings, thoughts, and intentions. This belief is common in many indigenous cultures across the globe and is characterized by a sense of spiritual beings inhabiting trees, rocks, and waterfalls. Animism is not a single religion but rather a cultural-specific worldview that varies depending on the culture in which it is practiced. In psychology, animism is often associated with the preoperational stage of cognitive development in children, where they may explain natural phenomena by attributing human-like qualities to inanimate objects. Animism is considered a form of magical thinking that is limited by a childs cognitive abilities.