W9 L2 Adolescent Development: Moral and Social Development

These flashcards cover key concepts related to moral, social, and identity development in adolescents, drawing on the theories of Kohlberg and Erikson, as well as the work of James Marcia.

Moral Development

The process by which individuals develop their understanding of right and wrong and internalize moral principles.

Kohlberg's Theory

A theory proposing three levels of moral development (preconventional, conventional, and post-conventional), each divided into two stages, based on reasoning rather than answers to moral dilemmas.

Preconventional Level

The first level of Kohlberg's moral development, where moral reasoning is based on avoiding punishment or seeking rewards.

Conventional Level

The second level of Kohlberg's moral development, where morality is based on conformity to social norms and maintaining authority.

Post-Conventional Level

The highest level of Kohlberg's moral development, where moral reasoning is based on abstract principles and personal values, potentially overriding societal laws.

Identity vs. Role Confusion

Erikson's adolescent stage where individuals explore their identity and sense of self, leading to either a coherent identity or confusion.

James Marcia

A theorist who expanded on Erikson's work, identifying four identity statuses (diffusion, foreclosure, moratorium, achievement) based on exploration and commitment.

Identity Diffusion

A state where an adolescent has not yet made commitments or explored options regarding identity.

Identity Foreclosure

A state where an adolescent commits to values or goals without exploring alternatives, often based on parental or societal expectations.

Identity Moratorium

A state where an adolescent is actively exploring options and beginning to make choices but has not yet committed to them.

Identity Achievement

The status achieved when an adolescent has resolved their identity crisis and made commitments to chosen values or roles.

Emerging Adulthood

A developmental stage between adolescence and adulthood characterized by exploration of identity and fewer commitments.