Question

Which of the following statements reflects Kohlberg's theory of the moral development of the preschool-age child? A. Obeying adults is seen as correct behavior. B. Showing respect for parents is seen as important. C. Pleasing others is viewed as good behavior. D. Behavior is determined by consequences.

Short answer

A. Obeying adults is seen as correct behavior. B. Showing respect for parents is seen as important. C. Pleasing others is viewed as good behavior. D. Behavior is determined by consequences. Answer: A. Obeying adults is seen as correct behavior.

Step-by-step solution

Compare Statements with Kohlberg's Theory

Compare each statement and determine which one aligns with Kohlberg's ideas regarding the moral development at this age. A. Obeying adults is seen as correct behavior. B. Showing respect for parents is seen as important. C. Pleasing others is viewed as good behavior. D. Behavior is determined by consequences.

Identify Preschool-Age Children's Development

Preschool-age children are typically within Kohlberg's preconventional level of moral development, which consists of two stages: 1. Punishment and obedience: The individual follows rules only to avoid punishment. 2. Instrumental relativism: The individual adheres to rules in order to receive rewards or satisfy their self-interests.

Match Correct Statement to Kohlberg's Preconventional Level

According to Kohlberg, preschool-age children are at the preconventional level of moral development. By looking at the two stages of the preconventional level, we can determine that statement A (Obeying adults is seen as correct behavior) and statement D (Behavior is determined by consequences) closely reflect the moral development at this age, since both of these statements address obeying rules and regulations set by adults in order to avoid the negative consequences of misbehavior. On the other hand, statements B (Showing respect for parents is seen as important) and C (Pleasing others is viewed as good behavior) do not align with Kohlberg's preconventional level, as they involve elements of conventional moral reasoning, which is expected to develop later in childhood.

Choose the Correct Answer

Among options A and D, option A (Obeying adults is seen as correct behavior) best represents the moral development of a preschool-age child according to Kohlberg's theory, as it emphasizes both punishment avoidance and conformity to adult authority figures, which are key aspects of the preconventional level of moral development. So, the correct answer is A. Obeying adults is seen as correct behavior.

Key concepts

Moral Development in Children

Understanding the moral development in children is crucial for educators, parents, and those preparing for exams like the NCLEX-PN. According to the prominent psychologist Lawrence Kohlberg, children go through different stages of moral growth. Kohlberg proposed a theory of moral development that is often described in three main levels: preconventional, conventional, and postconventional.

Each level of moral reasoning in children signifies a distinct way of thinking and a unique approach to understanding right and wrong. In preschool-aged children, moral development typically begins at the preconventional level, which is characterized by the child’s self-interest and desire to avoid punishment or gain rewards. As children grow and engage with their environment and society, their moral reasoning becomes more complex and sophisticated, eventually evolving into higher stages of moral understanding. This progression highlights how children’s cognitive development directly impacts their moral judgments and behaviors.

Preconventional Level of Moral Development

The preconventional level of moral development is the first phase in Kohlberg's theory and is especially relevant when discussing preschool-aged children. This level is divided into two stages: punishment and obedience, and instrumental relativism.

In the first stage, children view rules as fixed and absolute, obeying them solely to avoid punishment. Moral reasoning is based on the physical consequences of actions rather than any sense of right or wrong. For example, 'If I steal a cookie and get caught, I'll be punished, so stealing is bad.'

Punishment and Obedience

The second stage, instrumental relativism, involves an understanding that good behavior can lead to rewards. At this stage, children realize that there’s not just one right view; they begin to see that others may have their own interests, and sometimes these interests can work in their favor.

It’s important for those who interact with children, including future nurses preparing for the NCLEX-PN, to recognize these stages and tailor their communication and guidance accordingly. Understanding this level is crucial for creating a supportive environment for moral growth.

NCLEX-PN Exam Preparation

The National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) is a significant milestone for nursing students, testing their readiness to practice nursing at a practical or vocational level. Exam preparation typically involves reviewing core nursing concepts, clinical skills, and importantly, understanding the psychosocial aspects of care, which includes moral development theories.

One key aspect of preparation is to understand theories like Kohlberg's, as questions may relate to the moral development of clients across the lifespan. Nursing professionals are often in positions where they must recognize the moral reasoning behind a patient's decisions, which can influence treatment plans and care strategies.

To prepare effectively for the NCLEX-PN, students must not only memorize facts but also understand the underlying principles of human behavior, including moral development. This ensures that nurses can provide compassionate, appropriate care that considers the ethical and moral dimensions of patient interaction.