Passed)
Who founded Moral Development Theory? - Answers Lawrence Kohlberg
Whose theory did Kohlberg model his theory after? - Answers Jean Piaget
What are the assumptions for Moral Development Theory? - Answers 1. The older someone gets (higher
level of maturity) the higher their stage of moral reasoning
2. Once someone's major moral premise is understood, the solution to the moral problems confronted
by the person can be solved by laws of thought.
3. A link exists between moral reasoning and ethical behavior.
4. There is a greater tie between moral reasoning and ethical actions at higher stages than at lower
stages of moral development.
What is the focus of Moral Development Theory? - Answers Development of moral reasoning and the
ethical basis of behavior. It is a stage theory of narrow range.
Like Piaget, Kohlberg developed his theory by interviewing _________. - Answers Children
Kohlberg's assumption was: - Answers Children at different stages of moral development would use
different forms of reasoning in dealing with dilemmas.
Level 1: Preconventional Morality, Stage: 1 - Answers Should the behavior be rewarded or punished?
Answer reflects the child's perception of right and wrong. There is no middle ground, reflecting that the
child is thinking in a concrete manner. Good behavior is rewarded, bad behavior is punished.
Level 1: Preconventional Morality, Stage 2 - Answers What is there to be gained?
People hold different views and do different things for different reasons. Child has not made his own
decision of what is right and wrong, but does realize that there is no single view.
Level 2: Conventional Morality, Stage 3 - Answers The concern for stage 3 is approval from those in
authority, like God, parents, and teachers. Children at this stage are usually entering adolescence. Very
much concerned with the approval from others.
Level 2: Conventional Morality, Stage 4 - Answers The child in this stage is concerned about respect for
authority and the best interest of society. Perspective is more societal and widened. The good of an
individual is tied to the good of all - it is important for order to be maintained. Need to rule by law.
There would be chaos if we did what we saw as right and wrong - lawful guidelines are necessary.
Level 3: Postconventional Morality, Stage 5 - Answers An orderly society is not necessarily a just society.
Child wants to advance the rights of the individual, but in a larger context, so society in general is better