,PYC4805 Assignment 2 (COMPLETE ANSWERS) 2025 -
DUE 2025; 100% correct solutions and explanations.
Critical Evaluation of Kohlberg’s Theory of Moral Development
in Adolescents
Critical Evaluation of Kohlberg’s Theory of Moral
Development in Adolescents
1. Introduction Kohlberg’s theory of moral development is a
widely recognized framework that explains how individuals
progress in their moral reasoning. His theory builds upon Jean
Piaget’s work and proposes a stage-based model that outlines
moral development from childhood to adulthood. This essay
critically evaluates Kohlberg’s theory with a particular focus on
its applicability to adolescents. The discussion includes an
overview of the theory, its strengths, criticisms, and alternative
perspectives on moral development.
2. Overview of Kohlberg’s Theory
2.1 Stages of Moral Development Kohlberg identified three
levels of moral development, each consisting of two stages:
Preconventional Level (Stages 1 & 2): Moral reasoning is
based on obedience to authority and self-interest.
Conventional Level (Stages 3 & 4): Individuals conform
to societal norms and laws to maintain social order.
Postconventional Level (Stages 5 & 6): Moral reasoning is
based on abstract principles and justice, often transcending
legal constraints.
, 2.2 Application to Adolescents Adolescents typically operate
within the conventional level, where peer approval and social
norms play a crucial role in shaping their moral decisions.
However, some adolescents may begin to explore
postconventional reasoning, particularly when exposed to
diverse perspectives and ethical dilemmas.
3. Strengths of Kohlberg’s Theory
Provides a structured framework for understanding moral
development.
Highlights the role of cognitive processes in moral
reasoning.
Offers a universal perspective on moral growth across
different age groups.
Emphasizes the importance of justice and rights in moral
decision-making.
4. Criticisms of Kohlberg’s Theory
4.1 Cultural Bias Kohlberg’s theory has been criticized for its
Western-centric perspective, which prioritizes individual rights
and justice over communal values found in non-Western
cultures.
4.2 Gender Bias Carol Gilligan argued that Kohlberg’s theory
was based on male participants and overlooked the moral
reasoning of women, who may emphasize care and relationships
over justice.
4.3 Overemphasis on Justice The theory heavily focuses on
justice and legalistic reasoning, neglecting other moral values
DUE 2025; 100% correct solutions and explanations.
Critical Evaluation of Kohlberg’s Theory of Moral Development
in Adolescents
Critical Evaluation of Kohlberg’s Theory of Moral
Development in Adolescents
1. Introduction Kohlberg’s theory of moral development is a
widely recognized framework that explains how individuals
progress in their moral reasoning. His theory builds upon Jean
Piaget’s work and proposes a stage-based model that outlines
moral development from childhood to adulthood. This essay
critically evaluates Kohlberg’s theory with a particular focus on
its applicability to adolescents. The discussion includes an
overview of the theory, its strengths, criticisms, and alternative
perspectives on moral development.
2. Overview of Kohlberg’s Theory
2.1 Stages of Moral Development Kohlberg identified three
levels of moral development, each consisting of two stages:
Preconventional Level (Stages 1 & 2): Moral reasoning is
based on obedience to authority and self-interest.
Conventional Level (Stages 3 & 4): Individuals conform
to societal norms and laws to maintain social order.
Postconventional Level (Stages 5 & 6): Moral reasoning is
based on abstract principles and justice, often transcending
legal constraints.
, 2.2 Application to Adolescents Adolescents typically operate
within the conventional level, where peer approval and social
norms play a crucial role in shaping their moral decisions.
However, some adolescents may begin to explore
postconventional reasoning, particularly when exposed to
diverse perspectives and ethical dilemmas.
3. Strengths of Kohlberg’s Theory
Provides a structured framework for understanding moral
development.
Highlights the role of cognitive processes in moral
reasoning.
Offers a universal perspective on moral growth across
different age groups.
Emphasizes the importance of justice and rights in moral
decision-making.
4. Criticisms of Kohlberg’s Theory
4.1 Cultural Bias Kohlberg’s theory has been criticized for its
Western-centric perspective, which prioritizes individual rights
and justice over communal values found in non-Western
cultures.
4.2 Gender Bias Carol Gilligan argued that Kohlberg’s theory
was based on male participants and overlooked the moral
reasoning of women, who may emphasize care and relationships
over justice.
4.3 Overemphasis on Justice The theory heavily focuses on
justice and legalistic reasoning, neglecting other moral values
