Moral Development

Lawrence Kohlberg Author of a three-stage theory on how moral reasoning develops

Kohlberg’s theory States that development is universal and occur in invariant order-- moral stages determined by answers people give to hypothetical moral dilemmas

3 Levels summarized 1.Level One – so called because people at this stage do not really understand the conventions / rules of a society 2.Level two – so called because people at this stage conform to the conventions / rules of a society

3 Levels summarized 3. Level 3 so called because the moral principles that underline the conventions of a society are understood

Level One - Preconventional Moral Reasoning Characterized by the desire to avoid punishment or gain reward Typically children under the age of 9

Level One – Preconventional morality Stage 1 – fear punishment for disobedience The physical consequences of a behavior (punishment or lack of it) determine the behavior’s goodness or badness

Level One – continued –Stage 2 – in their best interest to obey –Good behavior is that which satisfies one’s own needs and occasionally the needs of others. A degree of fairness exists, but it always has a practical application –If you give me this, I’ll give you something in return

Level 2. Conventional Moral Reasoning Primary concern is to fit in and play the role of a good citizen People have a strong desire to follow the rules and laws. Typical of most adults

Level 2 – continued Stage 3 – based on conformity and loyalty –Good behavior is that which pleases others. There is a great deal of conformity, and behaviors are usually judged by intention

Level 2 – Continued Stage 4 – a “law-and-order” orientation –Good behavior are those that show respect for authority, fixed rules, and maintained of the status quo for its own sake

Level 3. Post conventional Moral Reasoning Characterized by references to universal ethical principles that represent the rights or obligations of all people Most adults do not reach this level.

Level 3 – Continued Stage 5 – values and laws are relative and change; recognition that people hold differing standards –Good behavior are those that uphold individual rights while meeting the standards have been consensually validated by the society

Level 3 – continued Stage 6 – standard based on universal human rights –Good behaviors are those that transcend standards set by any social or legal group. Decisions are based on individual conscience and involve abstract principles of universal equality and justice

Limitations to theory 1.Stage theory tends to over look cultural and educational influences on reasoning 2.People’s moral reasoning is often inconsistent across situations 3.Moral reasoning and behavior are often unrelated