KOHLBERG Flashcards
Aim of Kohlberg?
To show how his research supports his stage theory of moral development,
What was the procedure of kohlberg ?
Over the course of 12 years , kohlberg studied 75 American boys aged at the start 10-16 years up to when they were 22-28 years. In 3yr intervals, each of the boys were presented with hypothetical moral dilemmas that they would have to answer.
What is the background of Kohlberg ?
Kohlberg puts forward theory of moral development. He uses research to explain stage theory showing how moral thinking changes as a child gets older.
What is the research method of Kohlberg?
Longitudinal study.
Followed the development of the same boys for 12 years
What was the sample of Kohlberg ?
75 American boys who were aged 10-16 at the start of study, followed at 3 year intervals to when they were 22-28
Moral development was also studied in boys of other cultures including GB, Canada, Mexico and turkey
What were the key findings of Kohlbergs study ?
In research, examples given of how boys demonstrated each stage of moral reasoning & how values change as individuals progress through stages.
What are the conclusions from Kohlbergs study?
Moral development occurs in the same sequence regardless of where a child grows up. The nature of this sequence is not significantly affected by social, cultural or religious considerations.
Which ethical guidelines did kohlberg uphold ?
Participants consented to take part in his research
Could have withdrawn
No harm
What is the validity of Kohlbergs study ?
Lack ecological validity as people may act say they would act a certain way when in reality they wouldn’t. Asking p to give their thoughts on behaviour can lead to social desirability and demand characteristics.
What is the reliability of Kohlbergs study ?
Large sample can establish a consistent effect.
Standardised procedure as he used same moral dilemmas and same questions
How does Kohlbergs study link to the nature/nurture debate ?
Nature- each individual has an innate predetermined sequence of stages which will remain invariant , suggesting moral development is innate.
Nurture- culture may affect moral reasoning.
