The Stages of Moral Development

These flashcards provide key vocabulary and concepts related to the stages of moral development as discussed in the lecture.

Moral Development

The process through which a human person gains beliefs, skills, and dispositions that make him/her a morally mature person.

Conscience Formation

The process of developing a moral conscience through the pursuit of moral truth and ethical understanding.

Pre-conventional Morality

The lowest level of moral development where a child's moral code is controlled by external standards and consequences.

Obedience and Punishment Orientation

Stage 1 of pre-conventional morality where moral decisions are based on avoiding punishment.

Instrumental Orientation

Stage 2 of pre-conventional morality where right behavior is defined by self-interest and reciprocal exchange.

Conventional Morality

A level of moral development where a child's sense of morality is tied to societal rules and personal relationships.

Good Boy, Nice Girl Orientation

Stage 3 of conventional morality where individuals act to gain approval from others.

Law and Order Orientation

Stage 4 of conventional morality focused on obeying laws to maintain societal order.

Post-conventional Morality

The level of moral development where moral reasoning is based on self-chosen principles and individual rights.

Social Contract Orientation

Stage 5 of post-conventional morality where laws are seen as social contracts that should promote the general welfare.

Universal Ethical Principle Orientation

Stage 6 of post-conventional morality where individuals follow their own moral guidelines based on universal human rights.

Prudence

The virtue necessary for correct conscience formation, often tied to practical judgment and moral reasoning.

Conscience (Natural Law Tradition)

A judgment of human reason regarding choices and actions, guiding moral behavior and decisions.