Kohlberg moral stages

Moral Development

The process through which individuals develop proper attitudes and behaviors toward other people in society, based on social and cultural norms, laws, and rules.

Preconventional Level

The first level of Kohlberg's moral development theory, where moral reasoning is based on external rewards and punishments.

Conventional Level

The second level in Kohlberg's theory, where individuals abide by certain standards (internal), but they are the standards of others, such as parents or the laws of society.

Postconventional Level

The third level of Kohlberg's theory, where individuals recognize alternative moral courses, explore the options, and then decide on a personal moral code.

Obedience and Punishment Orientation

Stage 1 in Kohlberg's theory, where behavior is driven by avoiding punishment.

Self-Interest Orientation

Stage 2 in Kohlberg's theory, where behavior is driven by self-interest and rewards.

Interpersonal Accord and Conformity

Stage 3 in Kohlberg's theory, where behavior is driven by social approval.

Authority and Social Order Maintaining Orientation

Stage 4 in Kohlberg's theory, where behavior is driven by obeying authority and conforming to social order.

Social Contract Orientation

Stage 5 in Kohlberg's theory, where behavior is driven by balance of social order and individual rights.

Universal Ethical Principles

Stage 6 in Kohlberg's theory, where behavior is driven by internal moral principles.