Chapter 1-7: Kohlberg's Theory of Moral Development & Developmental Stages

Flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture on adolescent development, Lawrence Kohlberg's theory of moral development, its six stages across three levels, and related developmental theories.

Adolescent Development (Conflict)

Period characterized by an increase in conflict as adolescents develop their own identities, likes, and desires, often opposing parental wishes.

Emerging Adulthood (Conflict)

Period where conflict with parents decreases, largely due to parents recognizing their offspring as adults and respecting their decisions.

Lawrence Kohlberg's Theory of Moral Development

A theory proposing that our development of moral reasoning happens in six stages, structured into three levels: preconventional, conventional, and postconventional.

Preconventional Level (Kohlberg)

The first level of moral development where judgments are based on direct consequences for oneself, such as fear of punishment or self-interest; common among children.

Conventional Level (Kohlberg)

The second level of moral development where morality is centered around what society regards as right, responding to peer pressure and following rules; common in adolescence and adulthood.

Postconventional Level (Kohlberg)

The highest level of moral development where decisions depend on abstract principles, universal ethical ideas, and values of all life; individuals may disobey rules inconsistent with their own morality, and it is rarely reached.

Stage 1: Obedience and Punishment Orientation

Moral judgments are made based on whether actions will lead to punishment; the primary question is, 'How can I avoid punishment?'

Stage 2: Self-interest Orientation

Moral judgments are motivated by self-interest and reciprocal benefits; the primary question is, 'What's in it for me?'

Stage 3: Interpersonal Accord and Conformity

Moral judgments are guided by wanting to be seen as a 'good boy/good girl,' conforming to community ethics, and seeking approval from others; the primary question is, 'What do others think of me?'

Stage 4: Authority and Social Order Orientation

Moral judgments value authority and maintaining social order by following laws and rules; the primary question is, 'How can I maintain law and order?'

Stage 5: Social Contract Orientation

Moral judgments view rules as social contracts that make sense only if they serve the right purpose and protect individual rights, emphasizing fairness over strict adherence to law; the primary question is, 'Does a rule truly serve all members of the community?'

Stage 6: Universal Ethical Principles Orientation

Moral judgments are guided by abstract, universal ethical principles such as justice, compassion, and equality, even if they conflict with laws or social conventions; rarely reached.

Kohlberg's Research Focus

Kohlberg was more interested in how people think and arrive at a decision when confronted with moral dilemmas, rather than the specific decision itself.

Erickson's Theory (Adolescence)

According to Erikson, the psychosocial stage of development during adolescence is 'identity versus role confusion,' where individuals explore various roles and identities.