Moral Development: Theories and Stages

Moral Development

Definition

Moral development refers to the process by which individuals develop a sense of right and wrong, and learn to make decisions based on moral principles.

Theories of Moral Development

Lawrence Kohlberg's Theory

• Proposes that moral development occurs in a series of stages, each characterized by a distinct way of thinking about morality
• Stages:
  1. Obedience and Punishment Orientation
  2. Individualism and Exchange
  3. Mutual Interpersonal Expectations, Relationships, and Conformity
  4. Social System and Conscience
  5. Human Rights and Social Welfare
  6. Universal Ethical Principles

Carol Gilligan's Theory

• Critiques Kohlberg's theory for being overly focused on justice and neglecting the importance of care and empathy
• Proposes that moral development involves a shift from a focus on self-interest to a focus on relationships and care for others

Stages of Moral Development

• Pre-Conventional Morality (Stages 1-2): Morality is based on obedience to authority and self-interest
• Conventional Morality (Stages 3-4): Morality is based on social norms and expectations
• Post-Conventional Morality (Stages 5-6): Morality is based on universal ethical principles

Factors Influencing Moral Development

• Parenting Style: Authoritative parenting (warm and responsive, with clear boundaries) promotes healthy moral development
• Cultural and Social Influences: Cultural and social norms, as well as exposure to moral dilemmas, can shape moral development
• Cognitive Development: Moral development is closely tied to cognitive development, as individuals need to develop the ability to think abstractly and consider multiple perspectives

Moral Development

Definition

• Moral development is the process of developing a sense of right and wrong and making decisions based on moral principles.

Theories of Moral Development

Lawrence Kohlberg's Theory

• Moral development occurs in a series of stages, each characterized by a distinct way of thinking about morality.
• Stages of moral development:
  • Obedience and Punishment Orientation
  • Individualism and Exchange
  • Mutual Interpersonal Expectations, Relationships, and Conformity
  • Social System and Conscience
  • Human Rights and Social Welfare
  • Universal Ethical Principles

Carol Gilligan's Theory

• Critiques Kohlberg's theory for focusing on justice and neglecting care and empathy.
• Moral development involves a shift from self-interest to relationships and care for others.

Stages of Moral Development

• Pre-Conventional Morality (Stages 1-2): Morality is based on obedience to authority and self-interest.
• Conventional Morality (Stages 3-4): Morality is based on social norms and expectations.
• Post-Conventional Morality (Stages 5-6): Morality is based on universal ethical principles.

Factors Influencing Moral Development

• Parenting Style: Authoritative parenting (warm and responsive, with clear boundaries) promotes healthy moral development.
• Cultural and Social Influences: Cultural and social norms, as well as exposure to moral dilemmas, shape moral development.
• Cognitive Development: Moral development is closely tied to cognitive development, as individuals need to develop the ability to think abstractly and consider multiple perspectives.

Learn about the process of moral development, including Lawrence Kohlberg's theory of moral development stages, and test your understanding of moral principles.