Kohlberg's theory of moral development

What is the theory ?

the theory of moral development, primarily associated with psychologist Lawrence Kohlberg, outlines how individuals evolve in their understanding of moral principles throughout their lives. Kohlberg proposed that moral reasoning develops in stages, each representing a more sophisticated level of ethical thinking. His theory is divided into three main levels, each with two stages:

the stages of moral development

• Preconventional Level:

  • Stage 1: Obedience and Punishment Orientation—Morality is based on avoiding punishment.

  • Stage 2: Individualism and Exchange—Morality is guided by self-interest and reciprocal benefit.

• Conventional Level:

  • Stage 3: Good Interpersonal Relationships—Morality is based on conforming to social norms and expectations.

  • Stage 4: Maintaining the Social Order—Morality involves respecting authority and following laws to maintain societal order.

• Postconventional Level:

  • Stage 5: Social Contract and Individual Rights—Morality is based on social contracts and recognizing individual rights.

  • Stage 6: Universal Ethical Principles—Morality is guided by abstract principles of justice and human rights, transcending specific laws and norms.

A teenager is getting bullied at school at age 15 what would he do referring to the stage

At age 15, a teenager might respond to bullying based on their moral development stage, ranging from avoiding trouble (preconventional), seeking help and following social norms (conventional), to taking a principled stand against the wrongness of bullying (postconventional). or result in harrasment hurting the person back of retaliating

A child is getting bullied at school at age 7 what would he do referring to the stage

The child would most likely let a adult know of what is going on