Kholberg Theory of moral development

1. KOLBERG’S THEORY
OF MORAL
DEVELOPMENT
Submitted to: Miss Shaista Ejaz
Submitted on: 16-10-2015.

2. KHOLBERG’S THEORY
Introduction
His theory of moral development was dependent on the thinking of the Swiss psychologist
Jean Piaget and the American philosopher John Dewey. He was also inspired by James Mark
Baldwin. These men had emphasized that human beings develop philosophically and
psychologically in a progressive fashion.
Kohlberg believed...and was able to demonstrate through studies...that people progressed in
their moral reasoning (i.e., in their bases for ethical behavior) through a series of stages. He
believed that there were six identifiable stages which could be more generally classified into
three levels.On the basis of above information Kohlberg made following classification:
1. Level 1:Pre-Conventional Mortality:
At the pre-conventional don’t have a personal code of morality. At this level judgment is
based solely on a person's own needs and perceptions.
 Stage-1: Punishment and obedience orientation: Persons in this stage obey
rules to avoid punishment. A good or bad action is determined by its
physical consequences.
 Stage-2: Individualism and exchange: At this stage children are aware of different
perspectives, but it is very concrete. Their actions are determined from the viewpoint
of self-interest. Decisions are based on “you do this me for and I will do this for you”
thinking.
2. Level-2: Conventional Mortality:
At conventional level a person needs love, care and respect. He or she obeys law and
rules. The expectations of society and society laws are taken into account in a
decision about a moral dilemma.
 Stage-3: Interpersonal relationships: Often referred to as the "good boy-good girl"
orientation, this stage of moral development is focused on living up to social expectations and
roles. There is an emphasis on conformity, being "nice," and consideration of how choices
influence relationships.
 Stage-4: Maintaining the social order: At this stage of moral development, people begin to
consider society as a whole when making judgments. The focus is on maintaining law and
order by following the rules, doing one’s duty and respecting authority.
Level-3: Post Conventional Mortality: 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. Only 10-15% is capable

3. of the kind of abstract thinking necessary for stage 5 or 6. That is to say most people take
their moral views from those around them and only a minority thinks through ethical
principles for themselves.
 Stage-5: Social contract and individual: At this stage, people begin to account for
the differing values, opinions, and beliefs of other people. Rules of law are important
for maintaining a society, but members of the society should agree upon these
standards.
 Stage-6: Universal Principles: Kohlberg’s final level of moral reasoning is based
upon universal ethical principles and abstract reasoning. At this stage, people follow
these internalized principles of justice, even if they conflict with laws and rules.
EDUCTIONAL IMPLICATION OF KOHLBERG’S THEORY
Stage-1: Punishment and obedience orientation: To avoid punishment at this level we have
to provide students to work in cooperative groups. This activity explores new ideas in their
minds. They became more creative and show obedience.
Stage-2: Individualism and exchange: At this stage we have to build confidence in them
that they have come out from self and do something for others. We should not response
someone like they respond. They have to exchange dialogues with each other.
Stage-3: Interpersonal relationships: At this stage students are taught to become nice, they
wanted to become more charming, delightful, gracious etc. By obeying laws, rules and
regulations.
Stage-4: Maintaining the social order: At this age we have to tell students about law, rules
and regulations. So they obey rules and become more reasonable for their society.
Stage-5: Social contract and individual: At this stage we should achieve students trust and
give them company and share their views about particular topic. At this they need a
companion to tell their grief’s and sorrows.
Stage-6: Universal principles: At this level people become universal and do things for
whole world not just for their country or society. They transfer their experience to their young
ones

4. STAGES OF MORAL DEVALOPMENT: