Question

Name and briefly describe the three major phases of Kohlberg’s theory of moral development.$$ \begin{aligned} &\begin{array}{|l|l|} \hline \text { Phase } & \text { Description } \\ \hline & \\ \hline \end{array}\\\ &\begin{array}{|l|l|} \hline \text { Phase } & \text { Description } \\ \hline & \\ \hline & \\ \hline \end{array} \end{aligned} $$

Short answer

The three phases are Pre-conventional (consequences-based), Conventional (societal rules-based), and Post-conventional (universal principles-based).

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Phases

Name the three major phases in Kohlberg's theory of moral development: Pre-conventional, Conventional, and Post-conventional.

Describe the Pre-conventional Phase

In the Pre-conventional phase, moral reasoning is primarily driven by consequences. Individuals focus on direct consequences to themselves such as avoiding punishment and seeking rewards.

Describe the Conventional Phase

In the Conventional phase, individuals conform to societal rules and norms. Their moral reasoning is influenced by maintaining relationships and social order, focusing on approval from others and obeying laws.

Describe the Post-conventional Phase

In the Post-conventional phase, individuals recognize universal ethical principles that transcends laws and specific norms. They develop their own set of moral guidelines which may or may not align with societal expectations.

Key concepts

headline of the respective core concept

The Pre-conventional phase in Kohlberg's theory of moral development is the first stage. At this level, children typically think of morality in terms of direct consequences to themselves. For example, behavior is judged right or wrong based on whether it leads to punishment or rewards. For instance, a child might not steal a cookie because they fear being punished, or they might do their chores to receive praise or a treat.

There are two stages within this phase:

• Stage 1: Obedience and Punishment Orientation. Children obey rules to avoid punishment.
• Stage 2: Individualism and Exchange. Children recognize that different individuals have different perspectives and that actions can serve individual needs.

This phase lays the groundwork for more advanced moral reasoning that develops in later stages.

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The Conventional phase is the middle stage in Kohlberg's theory. Here, individuals begin to internalize the moral standards of valued adult role models. This phase is marked by an acceptance of society's conventions concerning right and wrong.

Within this phase, we have:

• Stage 3: Good Interpersonal Relationships. Individuals behave in ways that please others and ensure good relationships. They seek approval from others.
• Stage 4: Maintaining Social Order. There's a focus on obeying laws, respecting authority, and maintaining social order. People believe in doing their duty to society.

Thus, this phase reflects a shift from self-interest to a recognized importance of maintaining societal norms.

headline of the respective core concept

The Post-conventional phase is the final stage, where moral reasoning is based on abstract reasoning using universal ethical principles. Individuals here follow self-chosen ethical principles, and these principles typically emphasize justice, human rights, and equality.

This phase includes two key stages:

• Stage 5: Social Contract and Individual Rights. People understand that laws represent the greater good as agreed by the society but recognize that there can be differences between laws and personal moral codes.
• Stage 6: Universal Principles. Moral reasoning is based on abstract reasoning using universal ethical principles. Laws are valid only as far as they are grounded in justice.

In this phase, individuals develop a sense of moral autonomy, enabling them to challenge unjust laws and uphold principled awareness.