Moral Development

Level 1 - Pre-conventional morality

At this level (most nine-year-olds and younger, some over nine), we don't have a personal code of morality. Instead, our moral code is shaped by the standards of adults and the consequences of following or breaking their rules.

Pre-conventional morality characteristics

Authority is outside the individual and reasoning is based on the physical consequences of actions.

Level 2 - Conventional morality

At this level (most adolescents and adults), we begin to internalize the moral standards of valued adult role models.

Conventional morality characteristics

Authority is internalized but not questioned and reasoning is based on the norms of the group to which the person belongs.

Level 3 - Postconventional morality

Individual judgment is based on self-chosen principles, and moral reasoning is based on individual rights and justice. According to Kohlberg this level of moral reasoning is as far as most people get.

Postconventional morality prevalence

Only 10-15% are capable of the kind of abstract thinking necessary for this stage. Most people take their moral views from those around them and only a minority think through ethical principles for themselves.

Carol Gilligan's Preconventional stage

Goal is individual survival

Carol Gilligan's Conventional stage transition

Transition from selfish to responsibility for others

Carol Gilligan's Conventional stage

Self sacrifice is goodness

Carol Gilligan's Postconventional stage transition

Transition from goodness to truth (she is a person too)

Carol Gilligan's Postconventional stage principle

Principle of nonviolence: do not hurt