What does research consistently find about the six stages of moral development proposed by Lawrence Kohlberg? Generally speaking, research has found that the moral decision-making processes of males and females are far more similar than they are different. Click to see full answer.
What are the 6 stages of Kohlberg?
Lawrence Kohlberg's stages of moral development
- Theoretical framework. The framework of Kohlberg’s theory consists of six stages arranged sequentially in successive tiers of complexity.
- Basic tenets of Kohlberg’s theory. The numerous studies investigating moral reasoning based on Kohlberg’s theory have confirmed basic tenets regarding the topic area.
- Measurement of moral development. ...
What are the 6 stages of moral development?
Lawrence Kohlberg’s Six Stages of Moral Development
- Kohlberg’s Early Life and Education. Kohlberg was born in Bronxville, New York in 1927. ...
- Kohlberg’s Stages of Moral Development. Kohlberg became interested in Jean Piaget's theories of moral development in children and adolescents while studying for his doctorate degree.
- Level 1 – Pre-Conventional. ...
- Level 3 – Post-Conventional. ...
- Impact of Kohlberg’s Theory. ...
What are the 6 stages of morality?
When being asked what Heinz should do, children at this level of moral development may answer:
- He should steal the drug because he is a good husband, and a good husband would do anything to save his wife.
- He shouldn’t steal the drug because he’s not a criminal.
- He shouldn’t steal the drug because it’s illegal to steal.
- He should steal the drug to save his wife and after that, he should go to prison for the crime.
What are the three levels of moral development?
What are the 3 levels of moral development? Kohlberg identified three distinct levels of moral reasoning: preconventional, conventional, and postconventional. Each level has two sub-stages. What is Preconventional level? in Kohlberg’s theory of moral development, the first level of moral reasoning, characterized by the child’s evaluation of actions in terms of material consequences. What ...
What is the correct order of the stages according to Kohlberg's theory of moral development?
Kohlberg identified three distinct levels of moral reasoning: preconventional, conventional, and postconventional.
Which of the following represents the determinants of morality in the sixth stage in Kohlberg's theory of moral development?
This of the following represents the determinants of morality in the sixth stage in Kohlberg's theory of moral development? Justice and individual rights, which reflects traditional American culture and Judeo0Christian values.
What is Kohlberg's model of moral development quizlet?
Comprised of stages 1 and 2; a stage or moral development in which moral reasoning is based on reward and punishment from those in authority.
What technique did Kohlberg use?
Kohlberg relied on a method of vignettes. He wrote up scenarios that involved a moral dilemma and presented them to his research subjects. He asked people what they would do in each situation and then asked them to explain the reasoning behind their decision.
What are the 6 stages of Kohlberg's theory of moral development?
Kohlberg's 6 Stages of Moral DevelopmentThe full story. ... Stage 1: Obedience and punishment. ... Stage 2: Self-interest. ... Stage 3: Interpersonal accord and conformity. ... Stage 4: Authority and maintaining social order. ... Stage 5: Social contract. ... Stage 6: Universal ethical principles. ... Pre-conventional level.More items...•
Why is Kohlberg's theory of moral development important?
While Kohlberg's theory of moral development has been criticized, the theory played an important role in the emergence of the field of moral psychology. Researchers continue to explore how moral reasoning develops and changes through life as well as the universality of these stages.
Which of the following statements best describe Lawrence Kohlberg's theory of moral development?
Which of the following best describes Kohlberg's theory of moral development? Individuals move through three stages of moral reasoning: preconventional, conventional, and postconventional.
What is the main emphasis of Kohlberg's theory of development quizlet?
Individuals develop a moral standard based on universal human rights. Kohlberg emphasizes that this development of moral reasoning is universal, but some claim it is cutlurally biased.
What are the 6 stages of moral development quizlet?
Terms in this set (6)Stage 1 --> Heteronomous Morality. avoidance of punishment.Stage 2 --> Instrumental Morality. self-interest orientation ("what's in it for me?"); ... Stage 3 --> Good Child Morality. ... Stage 4 --> Law and Order Morality. ... Stage 5 --> Social Contract Reasoning. ... Stage 6 --> Universal Ethical Principles.
What did Kohlberg research?
Kohlberg is most well known among psychologists for his research in moral psychology, but among educators he is known for his applied work of moral education in schools. The three major contributions Kohlberg made to moral education were the use of Moral Exemplars, Dilemma Discussions, and Just Community Schools.
What is Kohlberg known for?
Lawrence Kohlberg, (born October 25, 1927, Bronxville, New York, U.S.—died January 17, 1987, Boston, Massachusetts), American psychologist and educator known for his theory of moral development.
Why do you think that the last level of Kohlberg six stages of moral development is not reached by all and is even rarely seen in adults?
The last stage (stage 6) is based on respect for universal principle and the demands of individual conscience. While Kohlberg always believed in the existence of Stage 6 and had some nominees for it, he could never get enough subjects to define it, much less observe their longitudinal movement to it.
How many stages of moral judgement did Kohlberg propose?
Building on from the original propositions of Jean Piaget, Kohlberg theorised that humans develop their moral judgements in 6 stages. To confirm his theory, Kohlberg interviewed boys between the ages of 10 and 16. He then analyzed how they would justify their decision when confronted with different hypothetical moral dilemmas.
What is Kohlberg's theory?
Lawrence Kohlberg’s theory claims that our development of moral reasoning happens in six stages. The stages themselves are structured in three levels: Pre-Conventional, Conventional and Post-Conventional. To understand this better, imagine a conflict at school. There is a fight in the schoolyard. Two ninth-graders are beating up Tom.
What is the highest moral principle of the headmaster?
The commitment to justice carries with it an obligation to disobey unjust rules. The headmaster’s highest moral principle is compassion. He believes that all people should learn to understand each other’s viewpoints and that they don’t feel alone with their feelings.
What is the first stage of the story?
Stage 1: Obedience and punishment. At stage one, we make moral judgments based on obedience and punishment. Finn’s sense of good and bad is directly linked to whether he gets punished or not. Finn sees what is happening to his friend and wants to help.
What is the stage 3 of the moral judgment?
At stage three, interpersonal accord and conformity guide our moral judgments. Betty sees the fight and wants to intervene, but when she realizes that all the others are just watching, she decides not to get involved. She wants others to see that she is a good girl, who is conforming with the ethics of the community.
What does the teacher say at stage 4?
At stage four, we value authority and want to maintain social-order. When the teacher sees the group fighting, he immediately steps in and shouts: “Stop, fighting at school is forbidden!”. He feels that, above all, it is important to follow the rules, otherwise chaos breaks out and that it is his duty to uphold the rules that sustain a functioning society. The teacher at that moment asks himself: How can I maintain law and order?
What is Mary's motivation in stage 2?
At stage two, we are motivated by self-interest. Mary decides to intervene and help Tom. She knows that she might get punished, but she also knows that she could become a victim herself, someday. If she helps Tom now, he might help her in the future. She is asking herself: What’s in it for me?
Who is the author of Kohlberg's Six Stages of Moral Development?
Lawrence Kohlberg’s Six Stages of Moral Development. Author: Jennifer Wilber. ico_facebook. ico_pinterest. Jennifer Wilber works as an ESL instructor, substitute teacher, and freelance writer. She holds a B.A. in Creative Writing and English. pinterest-pin-it.
What is Kohlberg's theory of morality?
Piaget's two stages of moral development were the basis for Kohlberg's six stages (Bookrags). Kohlberg’s model for moral development and moral reasoning, while similar to Piaget’s, is more complex. Kohlberg’s theory includes three levels of moral reasoning. The three levels that Kohlberg described are Level 1: Pre-Conventional morality, Level 2: Conventional Morality, and Level 3: Post-Conventional morality. Each of these levels are divided into two stages, for a total of six stages (Papalia, Olds, and Feldman 375).
What are the levels of moral reasoning?
The three levels that Kohlberg described are Level 1: Pre-Conventional morality, Level 2: Conventional Morality, and Level 3: Post-Conventional morality. Each of these levels are divided into two stages, for a total of six stages (Papalia, Olds, and Feldman 375).
What is the problem with Kohlberg's model?
She claims that boys have a “justice perspective,” whereas girls have a “care and responsibility perspective” when judging morality. Because of this, she criticizes Kohlberg’s model for focusing on the male “justice perspective” and treating male rule-based reasoning as morally superior (Macoinis 76). Further research has, however, found little support for Gilligan’s claims of a male bias in Kohlberg’s model (Papalia, Olds, and Feldman 378). Another problem with Kohlberg’s research is that he focused primarily on the development of children in American, and it is still unclear as to whether or not his model applies to people in other societies (Macoinis 76).
Why is Lawrence Kohlberg important?
Lawrence Kohlberg was an important figure is sociology and psychology. Though his research has been criticized, Kohlberg’s model on the moral development of children has become an important sociological and developmental theory. His research has profoundly shifted the way we look at moral development.
What is the importance of heredity and life experience?
Studies clearly demonstrate that both heredity and life experience contribute to account for a person's intellect, which is an important predictor of curiosity and desire to explore and discover. Absent such tendencies, neither Piaget or Kohlberg would have formulated their theories to begin with.
What is the first level of morality?
Level 1 – Pre-Conventional. The first level, Pre-Conventional morality is typically found in children between the ages of 4 and 10 years old. This level consists of Stage 1 and Stage 2. The first stage of this level, or Stage 1, is described as “orientation toward punishment and obedience.”.
How many levels of moral development did Kohlberg have?
Kohlberg's theory is broken down into three primary levels. At each level of moral development, there are two stages. Similar to how Piaget believed that not all people reach the highest levels of cognitive development, Kohlberg believed not everyone progresses to the highest stages of moral development.
Which level of moral development did Kohlberg believe everyone progressed to?
Level 1. Preconventional Morality. Preconventional morality is the earliest period of moral development.
What are the stages of moral development?
At this level of moral development, people develop an understanding of abstract principles of morality. The two stages at this level are: 1 Stage 5 (Social Contract and Individual Rights ): The ideas of a social contract and individual rights cause people in the next stage to begin to account for the differing values, opinions, and beliefs of other people. 7 Rules of law are important for maintaining a society, but members of the society should agree upon these standards. 2 Stage 6 (Universal Principles): Kohlberg’s final level of moral reasoning is based on universal ethical principles and abstract reasoning. At this stage, people follow these internalized principles of justice, even if they conflict with laws and rules.
What is the earliest period of moral development?
Preconventional morality is the earliest period of moral development. It lasts until around the age of 9. At this age, children's decisions are primarily shaped by the expectations of adults and the consequences for breaking the rules. There are two stages within this level:
What is reciprocity in the Heinz dilemma?
Reciprocity is possible at this point in moral development, but only if it serves one's own interests. Level 2. Conventional Morality.
What is the final stage of Kohlberg's moral reasoning?
Stage 6 (Universal Principles): Kohlberg’s final level of moral reasoning is based on universal ethical principles and abstract reasoning. At this stage, people follow these internalized principles of justice, even if they conflict with laws and rules.
What is Kohlberg's theory?
Kohlberg's theory played an important role in the development of moral psychology. While the theory has been highly influential, aspects of the theory have been critiqued for a number of reasons:
What was Kohlberg's theory of moral development?
Kohlberg’s theory, though extremely influential, was based on research that used only boys as subjects. In the 1980s the theory was criticized by the American psychologist Carol Gilligan for universalizing patterns of moral development exhibited by boys and ignoring the distinct patterns characteristic of girls.
Who developed the stage theory of moral development?
Lawrence Kohlberg ’s stages of moral development, a comprehensive stage theory of moral development based on Jean Piaget ’s theory of moral judgment for children (1932) and developed by Lawrence Kohlberg in 1958. Cognitive in nature, Kohlberg’s theory focuses on the thinking process that occurs when one decides whether a behaviour is right or wrong.
What is the measurement of moral development?
Since the development of Kohlberg’s theory, a number of measurement tools that purport to measure moral reasoning have been constructed. Kohlberg’s Moral Judgment Interview (1969) is a rather lengthy structured interview requiring trained interviewers and scorers.
What is Kohlberg's theory?
Cognitive in nature, Kohlberg’s theory focuses on the thinking process that occurs when one decides whether a behaviour is right or wrong. Thus, the theoretical emphasis is on how one decides to respond to a moral dilemma, not what one decides or what one actually does. Kohlberg’s theory, though extremely influential, ...
How many stages are there in Kohlberg's theory?
Theoretical framework. The framework of Kohlberg’s theory consists of six stages arranged sequentially in successive tiers of complexity. He organized his six stages into three general levels of moral development.
What is morality at the preconventional level?
At the preconventional level, morality is externally controlled. Rules imposed by authority figures are conformed to in order to avoid punishment or receive rewards. This perspective involves the idea that what is right is what one can get away with or what is personally satisfying. Level 1 has two stages.
What is the postconventional level of morality?
At the postconventional level, the individual moves beyond the perspective of his or her own society. Morality is defined in terms of abstract principles and values that apply to all situations and societies. The individual attempts to take the perspective of all individuals.
What is the six stage theory of moral development?
Kohlberg’s six-stage theory was an extension of Jean Piaget’s cognitive development theory (how people learn and use knowledge is affected by both social and psychological factors). Kohlberg extended on Piaget’s theory, proposing that moral development is a continual process ...
How did Kohlberg develop his theory?
Kohlberg based his theory on interviews with groups of young children. In the interviews, a series of moral dilemmas were presented to children, who were then interviewed to determine the reasoning behind their judgments of each scenario.
How do children develop moral judgment?
Moral judgment is making decisions based on whether or not they are right or wrong. They are many theories as to where young children develop moral judgment. Some argue that they learn it from experiences such as being punished or rewarded when displaying a certain type of behavior. Piaget outlined morality as an individual’s respect for rules and justice. He brought forth the idea that children learn moral sense from the interactions between the social world as well as their inner thoughts.
Which philosopher extended on Piaget's theory?
Kohlberg extended on Piaget’s theory, proposing that moral development is a continual process that occurs throughout the lifespan (the stage you are in life determines your level of moral development).
What is the Heinz dilemma?
Based on the reasoning of choice he received, he determined a stage of moral development that individual would be on. “The Heinz Dilemma” was a moral dilemma that he explained to his interviewees and then questioned them on the reasoning behind the decision they would make, he used the results to. determine the individual’s level ...
How many stages of moral development are there?
Stages of Moral Development. There were three levels of moral reasoning that encompassed the six stages. Like Piaget, subjects were unlikely to regress in their moral development, but instead, moved forward through the stages: pre-conventional, conventional, and finally post-conventional.
Who introduced the idea of how moral development occurs in stages, each level built on life experiences and active reasoning?
Jean Piaget introduced the idea of how moral development occurs in stages, each level built on life experiences and active reasoning. Lawrence Kohlberg furthered this idea by examining how moral reasoning changes as we grow.
What are some examples of moral dilemmas?
An example that Kohlberg used as a moral dilemma is as follows: A man named Heinz, who lived in Europe, had a wife whom he loved very much.
What is the stage 4 of social order?
Stage 4: Maintaining the Social Order. In this stage, laws and social order reign supreme. Rules and regulations are to be followed and obeyed. In the above example, the man should not steal the medicine because it is against the law. Stage four shows the moral development of a person as a part of a whole society.
What is the importance of the fifth stage of moral reasoning?
Individuals at the fifth stage of moral reasoning recognized the importance of protecting human rights while also resolving challenges in a democratic way. Unfortunately, some majority votes resulted in regulations that actually hurt a minority group, leading to questions of an even higher level of reasoning.
What is the final stage of Kohlberg's theory?
Stage 6: Universal Principles. The final stage of Kohlberg’s theory states that moral reasoning is based on personal values. In the above example, it is okay for the man to take the medication without paying as objects or property are not as valuable as his wife’s life.
What is the first stage of a child's life?
In the first stage, children obey the rules taught and believe what society says is right. Avoiding punishment is a leading factor in their desire to obey authority. This has diminished by stage two, where children can see that they are multiple points of view to the matter in question. They tend to reason according their own self-interests, including bartering with others.
Origins
Kohlberg’s Research Method
- Kohlberg utilized Piaget’s method of interviewing children about moral dilemmas in his research. He would present each child with a series of such dilemmas and ask them their thoughts on each one to determine the reasoning behind their thinking. For example, one of the moral dilemmasKohlberg presented was the following: “In Europe, a woman was near death from a sp…
Kohlberg’s Stages of Moral Development
- Kohlberg’s research yielded three levels of moral development. Each level consisted of two stages, leading to six stages in total. People pass through each stage sequentiallywith the thinking at the new stage replacing the thinking at the previous stage. Not everyone reached the highest stages in Kohlberg's theory. In fact, Kohlberg believed that m...
Critiques
- Since Kohlberg initially proposed his theory, many criticisms have been leveled against it. One of the key issues other scholars take with the theory centers on the sample used to create it. Kohlberg focused on boys in a specific United States city. As a result, his theory has been accused of being biased towards men in Western cultures. Western individualist cultures may have differ…
Sources
- Cherry, Kendra. “Kohlberg’s Theory of Moral Development.” Verywell Mind, 13 March 2019. https://www.verywellmind.com/kohlbergs-theory-of-moral-developmet-2795071
- Crain, William. Theories of Development: Concepts and Applications. 5th ed., Pearson Prentice Hall. 2005.
- Kohlberg, Lawrence. “The Development of Children’s Orientation Toward a Moral Order: I. Seq…
- Cherry, Kendra. “Kohlberg’s Theory of Moral Development.” Verywell Mind, 13 March 2019. https://www.verywellmind.com/kohlbergs-theory-of-moral-developmet-2795071
- Crain, William. Theories of Development: Concepts and Applications. 5th ed., Pearson Prentice Hall. 2005.
- Kohlberg, Lawrence. “The Development of Children’s Orientation Toward a Moral Order: I. Sequence in the Development of Moral Thought.” Vita Humana, vol. 6, no. 1-2, 1963, pp. 11-33. https://psycnet...
- McLeod, Saul. “Kohlberg’s Stages of Moral Development.” Simply Psychology, 24 October 2013. https://www.simplypsychology.org/kohlberg.html
Introduction
Kohlberg’s Early Life and Education
- Kohlberg was born in Bronxville, New York in 1927. After World War II, he helped to smuggle Jewish refugees past the British blockage of Palestine and in 1969, he returned to Israel to study the morality of young people in its collective settlements. He enrolled at the University of Chicago and was able to complete his bachelor's degree in only one year, 1948, because his scores on th…
Kohlberg’s Stages of Moral Development
- Kohlberg became interested in Jean Piaget's theories of moral development in children and adolescents while studying for his doctorate degree. His research involved studying American boys. Piaget's two stages of moral development were the basis for Kohlberg's six stages (Bookrags). Kohlberg’s model for moral development and moral reasoning, while similar to Piag…
Level 1 – Pre-Conventional
- The first level, Pre-Conventional morality is typically found in children between the ages of 4 and 10 years old. This level consists of Stage 1 and Stage 2. The first stage of this level, or Stage 1, is described as “orientation toward punishment and obedience.” Children in this stage tend to obey rules only to avoid punishment. The second stage, Stage 2, is “instrumental purpose and exchan…
Level 2 - Conventional
- The second level in Kohlberg’s model, Conventional morality, is generally reached between ages 10 and 13, though some individuals never move beyond this level. This level includes Stage 3 and Stage 4. Stage 3 is concerned with “maintaining mutual relations, approval of others, and the golden rule.” In this stage, children evaluate acts according to the motives behind them and can …
Level 3 – Post-Conventional
- The final level, Post-Conventional morality, is reached in early adolescence or young adulthood, though some individuals never reach this level. This level is comprised of Stage 5 and Stage 6. Stage 5 is the stage concerned with “morality of contract, of individual rights, and of democratically accepted law.” In this stage, individuals value the will of the majority and the well …
Impact of Kohlberg’s Theory
- Kohlberg’s theory, which built on Piaget’s research, profoundly shifted the way in which we view moral development. Researchers now study how individuals base moral judgments on their understanding of the social world, rather than seeing morality as simply the attainment of “control over self-gratifying impulses” (Papalia, Olds, and Feldman 377).
Criticism
- Kohlberg's research has been criticized by other researchers, most notably by Carol Gilligan, who noted that Kohlberg focused exclusively on male children in his studies of moral reasoning. Gilligan concluded through a series of studies that males and females develop different standards of morality. She claims that boys have a “justice perspective,” whereas girls have a “care and res…
Conclusion
- Lawrence Kohlberg was an important figure is sociology and psychology. Though his research has been criticized, Kohlberg’s model on the moral development of children has become an important sociological and developmental theory. His research has profoundly shifted the way we look at moral development.
Sources
- BOOKRAGS STAFF. "Lawrence Kohlberg". 2005. October 29 2009. <http://www.bookrags.com/biography/lawrence-kohlberg-soc/>. Macionis, John J. "Socialization: From Infancy to Old Age." Society: The Basics. 10th ed. Upper Saddle River: Pearson Education International, 2009. 70-95. Print. Papalia, Diane E, Sally Wendkos Olds, and Ruth Duskin Feldman…