Kohlberg's Stages of Moral Development Flashcards

Lawrence Kohlberg's three levels and six stages of moral reasoning.

Levels of Kohlberg's theory

Pre-conventional, Conventional, Post-conventional – 3 levels, 6 stages.

Stage 1

Obedience and punishment orientation.

Stage 2

Individualism and exchange (self-interest).

Stage 3

Good boy–good girl orientation (interpersonal relationships).

Stage 4

Law and order orientation.

Stage 5

Social contract orientation.

Stage 6

Universal ethical principles.

Heinz dilemma

Moral dilemma Kohlberg used to study moral reasoning.

Main critic of Kohlberg

Carol Gilligan – argued for an 'ethics of care'.