PYC4805
Assignment 2 2025
Unique #:
Due Date: 2025
Detailed solutions, explanations, workings
and references.
+27 81 278 3372
, CRITICALLY EVALUATING KOHLBERG’S THEORY OF MORAL
DEVELOPMENT IN ADOLESCENTS
INTRODUCTION
Moral development is an essential aspect of human growth, shaping an
individual's ability to differentiate between right and wrong. Lawrence Kohlberg's
theory of moral development provides a stage-based framework for
understanding the evolution of moral reasoning, particularly in adolescents. His
theory proposes that individuals progress through six distinct stages of moral
reasoning, categorized under three broad levels: pre-conventional, conventional,
and post-conventional morality. Each stage represents an advancement in moral
thought, moving from externally driven obedience to internalized ethical
principles.
This essay critically evaluates Kohlberg’s theory of moral development,
considering its applicability to adolescents. It examines each stage with
contemporary research findings and provides relevant examples that illustrate
moral reasoning at different developmental levels. The discussion also highlights
some of the criticisms of Kohlberg’s framework, particularly concerning cultural
bias, gender differences, and the influence of emotions on moral decision-
making.
KOHLBERG’S STAGES OF MORAL DEVELOPMENT AND THEIR
APPLICATION TO ADOLESCENTS
Pre-Conventional Level: Moral Reasoning Based on External Forces
At the pre-conventional level, moral reasoning is primarily dictated by
consequences, such as rewards or punishments. This level is typically observed
in young children but can still be present in some adolescents who base moral
decisions on self-interest or external authority.
Stage 1: Obedience Orientation
Varsity Cube 2024 +27 81 278 3372
Assignment 2 2025
Unique #:
Due Date: 2025
Detailed solutions, explanations, workings
and references.
+27 81 278 3372
, CRITICALLY EVALUATING KOHLBERG’S THEORY OF MORAL
DEVELOPMENT IN ADOLESCENTS
INTRODUCTION
Moral development is an essential aspect of human growth, shaping an
individual's ability to differentiate between right and wrong. Lawrence Kohlberg's
theory of moral development provides a stage-based framework for
understanding the evolution of moral reasoning, particularly in adolescents. His
theory proposes that individuals progress through six distinct stages of moral
reasoning, categorized under three broad levels: pre-conventional, conventional,
and post-conventional morality. Each stage represents an advancement in moral
thought, moving from externally driven obedience to internalized ethical
principles.
This essay critically evaluates Kohlberg’s theory of moral development,
considering its applicability to adolescents. It examines each stage with
contemporary research findings and provides relevant examples that illustrate
moral reasoning at different developmental levels. The discussion also highlights
some of the criticisms of Kohlberg’s framework, particularly concerning cultural
bias, gender differences, and the influence of emotions on moral decision-
making.
KOHLBERG’S STAGES OF MORAL DEVELOPMENT AND THEIR
APPLICATION TO ADOLESCENTS
Pre-Conventional Level: Moral Reasoning Based on External Forces
At the pre-conventional level, moral reasoning is primarily dictated by
consequences, such as rewards or punishments. This level is typically observed
in young children but can still be present in some adolescents who base moral
decisions on self-interest or external authority.
Stage 1: Obedience Orientation
Varsity Cube 2024 +27 81 278 3372
