Kohlberg’s Theory of Moral Development Flashcards
(30 cards)
Who developed the theory of moral development?
Lawrence Kohlberg (1927–1987)
What was the purpose of the Heinz dilemma in Kohlberg’s research?
To study how individuals reason about moral dilemmas and conflicts.
How many stages are in Kohlberg’s theory of moral development?
6 stages
What are the 3 levels of Kohlberg’s moral development?
- Pre-conventional\n2. Conventional\n3. Post-conventional
What is the focus of the Pre-conventional Level?
Obedience to avoid punishment and gain rewards (external consequences)
What happens in Stage 1: Obedience and Punishment?
Children obey rules to avoid punishment; rules are seen as fixed.
What is Stage 2: Instrumental Purpose / Exchange about?
Moral reasoning based on self-interest and personal rewards.
What is the focus of the Conventional Level?
Gaining social approval and maintaining law and order.
Describe Stage 3: Good-boy/Good-girl Orientation.
Behavior aims to please others and gain social approval.
What defines Stage 4: Law and Order Orientation?
Respect for laws, rules, and authority; duty to maintain order.
What is the focus of the Post-conventional Level?
Abstract reasoning, justice, and universal ethical principles.
What is Stage 5: Social Contract Orientation?
Laws are seen as social contracts; focus on fairness and individual rights.
What happens in Stage 6: Universal Ethical Principles?
Moral reasoning based on internal values and principles like justice and human dignity.
At what age level do children typically show Pre-conventional reasoning?
During childhood
At what age level does Conventional reasoning usually emerge?
During adolescence
What marks the transition to Post-conventional moral reasoning?
Questioning laws and prioritizing justice and human rights over rules.
Is Kohlberg’s theory more focused on moral behavior or moral reasoning?
Moral reasoning
True or False: Everyone reaches Stage 6 of Kohlberg’s theory.
False – Not everyone reaches the post-conventional stages, especially Stage 6.
What is the key characteristic of Stage 3 moral reasoning?
Desire to be seen as a “good” person by others (seeking approval)
Give a real-life example of Stage 4 reasoning.
Following school rules even if you disagree, because rules maintain order.
What might a teen in Stage 5 argue about school policies?
That rules should be fair and protect individual rights, even if it means questioning authority.
What’s the difference between Stage 2 and Stage 3?
Stage 2: Focus on personal gain (self-interest)\nStage 3: Focus on gaining approval and being liked by others
What type of moral thinking begins to emerge in late adolescence?
Post-conventional reasoning – thinking beyond rules and considering ethics and justice.
Which stage involves breaking a law to follow one’s own ethical principles?
Stage 6 – Universal Ethical Principles
