Cognitive explanations for offending behaviour
Level of moral reasoning
Kohlberg was the first researcher to apply the concept of moral reasoning to criminal
behaviour
-peoples decisions and judgments of right or wrong can be summarized in a stage theory of
moral development
Low Childlike, less
moral mature
reasoning
Advocates for
others, honest,
generous, non-
violent
High
moral
reasoning
Many studies have shown criminals have a lower level or moral reasoning compared to non-
criminals
-eg: Kohlberg et al used his moral dilemma technique to find that a group of violent youths were
lower in their moral development compared to non-violent youths (the social background was
controlled)
Kohlberg’s model and criminality
Criminals are more likely to be classed stage 1+2 and non-criminals are more likely stage 3
Adults or adolescents who commit crime at They tend to be more egocentric and display
this level think they can get away with it or poorer social perspective-taking skills than
gain rewards such as money or respect non-offenders (Chandler 1973)
Level of moral reasoning
Kohlberg was the first researcher to apply the concept of moral reasoning to criminal
behaviour
-peoples decisions and judgments of right or wrong can be summarized in a stage theory of
moral development
Low Childlike, less
moral mature
reasoning
Advocates for
others, honest,
generous, non-
violent
High
moral
reasoning
Many studies have shown criminals have a lower level or moral reasoning compared to non-
criminals
-eg: Kohlberg et al used his moral dilemma technique to find that a group of violent youths were
lower in their moral development compared to non-violent youths (the social background was
controlled)
Kohlberg’s model and criminality
Criminals are more likely to be classed stage 1+2 and non-criminals are more likely stage 3
Adults or adolescents who commit crime at They tend to be more egocentric and display
this level think they can get away with it or poorer social perspective-taking skills than
gain rewards such as money or respect non-offenders (Chandler 1973)
