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Moral Development Theory

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8 views2 pages

Moral Development Theory

Reviewer

Uploaded by

olassherygrace
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Lawrence Kohlberg's theory of moral development, proposed in the 1950s and 1960s, is a

framework for understanding how individuals progress in their moral reasoning throughout
their lives. Kohlberg expanded upon Jean Piaget's earlier work and suggested that moral
development occurs in stages, each characterized by increasingly sophisticated forms of
moral reasoning. His theory is divided into three main levels, each containing two stages.

Level 1: Pre-Conventional Morality

This level is typical of younger children and is characterized by a focus on direct


consequences of actions.

- Stage 1: Obedience and Punishment Orientation

Individuals make moral decisions based on avoiding punishment. They see rules as fixed
and absolute.

- Stage 2: Individualism and Exchange

At this stage, individuals recognize that there is not just one right view, but multiple
perspectives. They make decisions based on self-interest and the exchange of favors.

Level 2: Conventional Morality

This level is often reached in the teenage years and is characterized by an understanding of
social rules and the importance of maintaining relationships.

- Stage 3: Good Interpersonal Relationships

Individuals at this stage value trust and loyalty and focus on being seen as a good person
by others. They often conform to social norms.

- Stage 4: Maintaining Social Order

Here, individuals understand the importance of law and order and the duty to uphold
societal rules. They are concerned with maintaining the welfare of the group.
Level 3: Post-Conventional Morality

In this level, individuals form their own moral principles and view morality as more
abstract. This level is not reached by everyone.

- Stage 5: Social Contract and Individual Rights

Individuals recognize that laws are social contracts that should promote the greatest good
for the greatest number. They value individual rights and consider the welfare of others.

- Stage 6: Universal Principles

At this highest stage, individuals follow internalized principles of justice and equality, even
if they conflict with laws and rules. Their moral reasoning is based on universal ethical
principles.

Key Points:

- Kohlberg emphasized that moral development is sequential; individuals must pass


through these stages in order.

- He conducted studies using moral dilemmas, such as the famous "Heinz dilemma," to
assess the reasoning behind individuals' decisions.

- Critics of Kohlberg's theory point out that it may be biased towards Western, male
perspectives, underrepresenting moral reasoning in different cultural contexts, and
emphasizing justice over relationships.

Kohlberg’s work has had a significant impact on psychology, education, and philosophy,
providing a framework for understanding moral reasoning and ethical behavior.

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