,PYC4805 Assignment 2 (COMPLETE ANSWERS)
Semester 1 2025 - DUE 2025; 100% TRUSTED
Complete, trusted solutions and explanations
Kohlberg’s theory of moral development posits a stage-based progression in moral
reasoning through six distinct stages”. Critically evaluate this statement, considering
Kohlberg’s stages of moral development of adolescents and substantiate your
discussion with contemporary research and provide examples for each of the stages.
A Critical Evaluation of Kohlberg’s Theory of Moral
Development in Adolescents
Kohlberg’s theory of moral development offers a comprehensive, stage-
based model that seeks to explain how individuals, especially
adolescents, evolve in their capacity for moral reasoning. Inspired by
Jean Piaget’s cognitive-developmental theory, Kohlberg proposed six
distinct stages grouped into three primary levels: preconventional,
conventional, and postconventional morality. While this framework
has been profoundly influential in developmental psychology and
educational settings, it has also attracted considerable criticism
concerning cultural bias, gender perspectives, and real-world
applicability. This essay explores each level of Kohlberg’s model in
relation to adolescent development, incorporating contemporary research
and practical examples.
Level 1: Preconventional Morality
The preconventional level, typically observed in younger children but
sometimes present in adolescents, is characterized by egocentric
thinking and a focus on external consequences.
, Stage 1: Obedience and Punishment Orientation
At this stage, right and wrong are judged by physical consequences.
Adolescents may avoid certain actions simply to escape punishment. For
instance, a student might refrain from skipping class solely to avoid
detention.
While this stage reflects early moral understanding, it lacks empathy or
awareness of broader social norms. Critics argue that such reasoning
oversimplifies the complex social dynamics adolescents begin to
navigate, as it relies heavily on adult-imposed rules.
Stage 2: Individualism and Exchange
Here, morality becomes more relativistic. Adolescents begin to
recognize that others have needs, but actions are guided by self-interest
and the principle of fairness based on mutual benefit. For example, a
teenager might help a peer with homework expecting help in return
during group work.
Although more advanced than Stage 1, this stage still reflects a limited
perspective, emphasizing "what's in it for me" rather than communal or
ethical values. Research has shown that while adolescents do display
signs of reciprocity, their reasoning is often more emotionally and
contextually driven than Kohlberg accounted for.
Level 2: Conventional Morality
This level reflects a shift from self-interest to a concern with social
norms, expectations, and maintaining relationships—making it highly
relevant during adolescence.
Stage 3: Good Interpersonal Relationships
Semester 1 2025 - DUE 2025; 100% TRUSTED
Complete, trusted solutions and explanations
Kohlberg’s theory of moral development posits a stage-based progression in moral
reasoning through six distinct stages”. Critically evaluate this statement, considering
Kohlberg’s stages of moral development of adolescents and substantiate your
discussion with contemporary research and provide examples for each of the stages.
A Critical Evaluation of Kohlberg’s Theory of Moral
Development in Adolescents
Kohlberg’s theory of moral development offers a comprehensive, stage-
based model that seeks to explain how individuals, especially
adolescents, evolve in their capacity for moral reasoning. Inspired by
Jean Piaget’s cognitive-developmental theory, Kohlberg proposed six
distinct stages grouped into three primary levels: preconventional,
conventional, and postconventional morality. While this framework
has been profoundly influential in developmental psychology and
educational settings, it has also attracted considerable criticism
concerning cultural bias, gender perspectives, and real-world
applicability. This essay explores each level of Kohlberg’s model in
relation to adolescent development, incorporating contemporary research
and practical examples.
Level 1: Preconventional Morality
The preconventional level, typically observed in younger children but
sometimes present in adolescents, is characterized by egocentric
thinking and a focus on external consequences.
, Stage 1: Obedience and Punishment Orientation
At this stage, right and wrong are judged by physical consequences.
Adolescents may avoid certain actions simply to escape punishment. For
instance, a student might refrain from skipping class solely to avoid
detention.
While this stage reflects early moral understanding, it lacks empathy or
awareness of broader social norms. Critics argue that such reasoning
oversimplifies the complex social dynamics adolescents begin to
navigate, as it relies heavily on adult-imposed rules.
Stage 2: Individualism and Exchange
Here, morality becomes more relativistic. Adolescents begin to
recognize that others have needs, but actions are guided by self-interest
and the principle of fairness based on mutual benefit. For example, a
teenager might help a peer with homework expecting help in return
during group work.
Although more advanced than Stage 1, this stage still reflects a limited
perspective, emphasizing "what's in it for me" rather than communal or
ethical values. Research has shown that while adolescents do display
signs of reciprocity, their reasoning is often more emotionally and
contextually driven than Kohlberg accounted for.
Level 2: Conventional Morality
This level reflects a shift from self-interest to a concern with social
norms, expectations, and maintaining relationships—making it highly
relevant during adolescence.
Stage 3: Good Interpersonal Relationships
