Kohlberg's theory of moral development presents three levels with two stages each of moral reasoning. The reason or motive for the behavior of an individual is what defines each stage (Crain, 1985). In order to come up with this developmental theory Kohlberg carried out studies using various dilemmas and finding out how the subjects responded. His main interest in the process is not a "yes" or "no" said by the subject but rather the reasoning behind the answer. This way he was able to demonstrate that people's moral reasoning progressed through a series of stages as discussed hereunder:
The first level is referred to as the "pre-conventional moral reasoning" and is typically related to children of about the age of 10 years. At this stage the individual does not internalize morals and the reasoning is externally influenced (Jeremy et al., 2000). The individual categorizes an act as good or bad depending on the consequences and in relation to the set rules, actually children at this level do not understand the rules that have been set down by others thus the name "pre-conventional," the first and second stage fall under this level.
Stage one is where punishment and obedience influence actions, at this stage moral decisions made by individuals are based on the fear of punishment. Individuals evaluate their actions not in terms of goodness or badness but rather in terms of possible punishment, and the emphasis is on obeying power (McDevitt and Ormrod, 2007). Individuals tend to behave in a way that evades punishment and whether an action is right or wrong depends on whether it is punished or not. Children within this age bracket will obey instructions because they have been told by adults and because if they don't they will be punished by the adults. For instance, a six-year-old boy will refrain from cheating in exams because he feels he will get caught and be punished by the teacher, therefore, the reasoning is that cheating in exams is bad because it is punishable.
Stage two is characterized by individual self-interest and exchange of favors. At this stage the individual determines what is right...
Moral Development/Kohlberg Kohlberg's Theory of Moral Development: Therapeutic Implications Kohlberg continues to be a significant figure and influence on the field of psychology. He is well-known for his theory of moral development which details different stages of morality throughout one's life. Although the theory has faced criticisms, particularly due to a questionable generalization to all cultures, it continues to be a basis of knowledge and usefulness in practice. In regards to
The teacher who is cognizant of Kohlberg's theory and observant of student behavior might take the opportunity to help direct children who are beginning to make that transition to think about morality in ways that help them narrow their focus to understand basic concepts about why certain types of behavior may be moral or immoral. Without guidance, children may merely shift from the concern over doing what adults say
Ethics and Moral Development in the Business Environment Ethics, as the study of right and/or wrong, is an essential tool for professionals and practitioners of specific fields of study, particularly those people who directly deal with society. Knowing acts and behavior that are right or wrong, moral or immoral are considerations that an individual must take into account when practicing his/her chosen field of profession. However, there are various theories
, 2009). In reflection on the learning process, one can easily see the path that a student takes from thirsting for concrete information to needing to question information presented and integrate it with other knowledge in order to create new meaning. In support of this process professors can actively partner with students requesting their contributions to the knowledge development process. In order to ensure successful cognitive-structural development, professors and administrators must
Moral Messages in Children's Literature I chose four children's classics: Charlotte's web (1952) by E.B. White, and other three children's fairy tales, two by Jakob and Wilhelm Grimm (Cinderella and Snow white and the seven dwarfs) and one by Charles Perrault (Sleeping Beauty). These were among my personal childhood favorites. Looking back on all four as an adult, I see many similarities, but also many differences, in these books' inherent moral
Essay Topic Examples 1. The Effectiveness of Moral Recognition Therapy in Addressing Recidivism among Offenders This essay would explore how Moral Recognition Therapy (MRT) serves as a psychological intervention aimed at reducing recidivism among convicted offenders. The focus would be on analyzing studies and statistics that reflect the effectiveness of MRT in altering criminal thinking patterns, instilling moral values, and consequently decreasing the likelihood of reoffending. Furthermore, the essay could compare MRT
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