PYC4805
ASSIGNMENT 2 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 27 JUNE 2025
, Developmental Psychology
Title: A Critical Evaluation of Kohlberg’s Stage-Based Theory of Moral
Development in Adolescents
Introduction
Lawrence Kohlberg’s theory of moral development (1958, 1981) posits that individuals
progress through six sequential stages of moral reasoning grouped into three levels:
pre-conventional, conventional, and post-conventional. Each stage represents a
qualitatively different mode of thinking about right and wrong. The theory has been
widely influential, particularly in educational and developmental psychology, yet it has
also attracted substantial critique. This essay critically evaluates the theory with a focus
on adolescent moral reasoning, incorporating contemporary research and illustrative
examples for each stage.
Overview of Kohlberg’s Six Stages
Level Stage Description
Pre- 1. Obedience and Moral reasoning based on avoiding
conventional Punishment Orientation punishment.
2. Instrumental-Relativist Right action is what satisfies one’s own
Orientation needs.
3. Good Interpersonal Morality is about living up to social
Conventional
Relationships expectations.
4. Maintaining Social Order Emphasis on law, order, and authority.
Post- 5. Social Contract and Laws are social contracts that promote
conventional Individual Rights the greater good.
ASSIGNMENT 2 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 27 JUNE 2025
, Developmental Psychology
Title: A Critical Evaluation of Kohlberg’s Stage-Based Theory of Moral
Development in Adolescents
Introduction
Lawrence Kohlberg’s theory of moral development (1958, 1981) posits that individuals
progress through six sequential stages of moral reasoning grouped into three levels:
pre-conventional, conventional, and post-conventional. Each stage represents a
qualitatively different mode of thinking about right and wrong. The theory has been
widely influential, particularly in educational and developmental psychology, yet it has
also attracted substantial critique. This essay critically evaluates the theory with a focus
on adolescent moral reasoning, incorporating contemporary research and illustrative
examples for each stage.
Overview of Kohlberg’s Six Stages
Level Stage Description
Pre- 1. Obedience and Moral reasoning based on avoiding
conventional Punishment Orientation punishment.
2. Instrumental-Relativist Right action is what satisfies one’s own
Orientation needs.
3. Good Interpersonal Morality is about living up to social
Conventional
Relationships expectations.
4. Maintaining Social Order Emphasis on law, order, and authority.
Post- 5. Social Contract and Laws are social contracts that promote
conventional Individual Rights the greater good.
