Kohlberg's Stages Of Moral Development Ages Chart
Lawrence Kohlberg was a psychologist who developed a theory of moral development in the mid-20th century. According to his theory, moral development occurs in stages and is a gradual process that starts in childhood and continues into adulthood.
The stages of moral development are divided into three levels, with two stages in each level. The levels are:
Level 1: Pre-conventional Morality
At this level, children base their moral decisions on avoiding punishment and seeking rewards. The two stages are:
Stage 1: Obedience and Punishment Orientation
This stage is common in young children who obey rules to avoid punishment. They do not understand that rules are necessary and may disobey them if they can get away with it.
Stage 2: Individualism and Exchange
At this stage, children understand that people have different needs and that everyone should look out for themselves. They may break rules if it benefits them, but they also understand that others may do the same.
Level 2: Conventional Morality
At this level, people base their moral decisions on social norms and expectations. The two stages are:
Stage 3: Interpersonal Relationships
At this stage, people understand that relationships are important and that everyone should be treated fairly. They may try to please others and avoid disapproval.
Stage 4: Maintaining Social Order
At this stage, people understand that society needs rules and laws to function properly. They believe that everyone should follow the rules and that those who break them should be punished.
Level 3: Post-conventional Morality
At this level, people base their moral decisions on their own internal principles and values. The two stages are:
Stage 5: Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage, people understand that laws and rules are important, but they also believe that they should be flexible and change as needed. They believe in individual rights and may be willing to disobey laws that they believe are unjust.
Stage 6: Universal Principles
At this stage, people base their moral decisions on universal principles such as justice, equality, and respect for human dignity. They believe that these principles should guide all decisions, even if they conflict with laws or societal norms.
It is important to note that not everyone reaches the highest level of moral development. Many people remain at the conventional level throughout their lives, while others may never progress beyond the pre-conventional level.
Understanding Kohlberg's stages of moral development can help us better understand why people make certain moral decisions and how we can encourage moral development in children and adults.
