Kohlberg’s Stages of Moral Development

Question 1

Preconventional (4-10 years)

Answer 1

Behaviour motivated by fear of punishment
Behaviour motivated by egocentrism and concern for self

STAGE: 1. Punishment and obedience orientation
2.Instrumental relativist orientation

Question 2

Conventional (10-13 years and into adulthood)

Answer 2

Behavior motivated by expectations of others, a strong desire for approval and acceptance
Behaviour motivated by respect for authority

STAGE: 3. Interpersonal concordance orientation
4. Law and order orientation

Question 3

Postconventional (can occur from adolescence on)

Answer 3

Behavior motivated by respect for universal laws and moral principles, guided by an internal set of values

STAGE: 5. Social contact legalistic orientation
6. Universal ethical principle-orientation