Question

Explain how preschool-age children develop a moral sense. Piaget believed that preschool-age children are in the heteronomous morality stage of moral development, characterized by a belief in external, unchangeable rules of conduct and sure, immediate punishment for all misdeeds. In contrast, social learning approaches to morality emphasize interactions between environment and behavior in moral development, in which models of behavior play an important role. Some developmentalists believe that moral behavior is rooted in a child's development of empathy. Other emotions, including the negative emotions of anger and shame, may also promote moral behavior.

Short answer

Preschool-age children develop a sense of morality through Piaget's heteronomous morality stage, which emphasizes external and unalterable rules; through social learning approaches which underline the influence of the environment and behavior, particularly behavior modeling; and through emotional development, with a focus on the development of empathy and reactions to emotions such as anger and shame.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Piaget's Theory

Piaget, a renowned psychologist, proposed that preschool-age kids are in the 'heteronomous morality' phase. In this phase, children believe in the existence of absolute rules of conduct that are independent and unalterable. They also believe in certain, immediate punishment for any wrongdoing. It's essential to note that, at this stage, children's sense of morality is greatly controlled by outside forces.

Unpacking Social Learning Approaches

Social learning approaches, on the other hand, stress the interaction between environment and behavior in moral development. The theory suggests that societal and environmental aspects hugely influence a child's moral growth. Particularly, behavioral models like parents, peers, and teachers play a considerable role in shaping morality in children.

Role of Empathy and Other Emotions

Some developmentalists advocate for the belief that a child's development of empathy significantly contributes to their moral behavior. Empathy can foster understanding and consideration for others, which are key tenets of morality. Additionally, other emotions such as anger and shame, might also encourage moral behavior since children wish to avoid negative feelings.

Summary of the Moral Development in Children

In summary, preschool-age children develop their sense of morality through different stages and methods, which involve the interplay of many factors. These include external rules of conduct (heteronomous morality), influence from the environment and behavior (social learning approach), and emotional development (particularly empathy, anger, and shame).