Lecture 6: Moral Development

A series of flashcards summarizing key terms and concepts related to moral development discussed in the lecture.

Morality

The capacity to distinguish between right and wrong, act on this distinction, and experience moral emotions.

Moral Development

The process by which people learn to make decisions and resolve conflicts between competing social outcomes.

Affective Component

Emotional responses to right and wrong, such as feeling guilt, pride, or empathy.

Cognitive Component

Thinking and reasoning about moral issues, such as judging fairness and justice.

Behavioural Component

Acting in accordance with moral beliefs, including helping and telling the truth.

Lawrence Kohlberg

Psychologist known for his theory of moral reasoning that develops in stages.

Preconventional Morality

Moral reasoning based on self-interest and the avoidance of punishment.

Conventional Morality

Moral reasoning based on conformity, relationships, and social order.

Postconventional Morality

Moral reasoning based on abstract principles that may transcend laws.

Moral Dilemma

A situation where a person must choose between two conflicting moral values.

Instrumental Exchange Orientation

Stage 2 of moral reasoning where actions are based on self-interest or equal exchange.

Good Boy/Good Girl Orientation

Stage 3 of moral reasoning focused on gaining approval from others.

Social Contract Orientation

Stage 5 of moral reasoning where laws are seen as flexible tools for promoting welfare.

Universal Ethical Principles

Stage 6 of moral reasoning guided by internal moral principles such as justice and equality.

Carol Gilligan

Psychologist who critiqued Kohlberg's theory for being male-centric and proposed the Ethic of Care.

Moral Emotion

Feelings that influence moral reasoning and behaviour, like guilt and empathy.

Moral Identity

The aspect of a person's self-concept that reflects their moral values.

Cognitive Development

The process by which individuals learn and grow in their ability to think and reason.

Ethical Decisions

Decisions made based on a combination of morality, reasoning, and emotional influences.

Moral Conflict

A situation in which an individual faces competing moral values.