Moral Development Stages and Theories

Goldberg's theory of moral development describes how individuals progress through six stages of moral reasoning, grouped into three levels: preconventional, conventional, and postconventional. Each stage reflects increasing complexity, from obedience to authority to abstract ethical principles. The theory has been critiqued for its focus on justice and individualism, which may reflect Western cultural values, and for overlooking emotions in moral decision-making.

What are the three levels of moral development according to Goldberg's theory?

• Preconventional, Conventional, Postconventional

• Childhood, Adolescence, Adulthood

• Basic, Intermediate, Advanced

• Simple, Complex, Abstract

In the preconventional level, what primarily drives morality in the first stage?

• Seeking approval

• Avoiding punishment

• Following laws

• Challenging norms

During the individualism and exchange stage, how do individuals make decisions?

• By following ethical principles

• Based on societal norms

• To avoid punishment

• Through mutual exchanges

What is the focus of morality in the good interpersonal relationships stage?

• Challenging unjust laws

• Following self-chosen principles

• Gaining approval from others

• Maintaining social order

In the maintaining social order stage, what is the primary concern?

• Social harmony

• Personal gain

• Universal ethics

• Individual rights

What characterizes the postconventional level of moral development?

• Avoiding punishment

• Abstract reasoning based on principles

• Conforming to societal rules

• Seeking approval from authority

In the social contract and individual rights stage, what do individuals recognize about laws?

• They are always just

• They are designed for personal benefit

• They can be flawed

• They should never be challenged

What guides actions in the universal ethical principles stage?

• Self-chosen ethical principles

• Authority figures

• Societal norms

• Mutual exchanges

What is a criticism of Goldberg's theory regarding cultural values?

• It focuses too much on emotions

• It lacks a focus on justice

• It reflects Western cultural values

• It is too abstract

What aspect does Goldberg's theory reportedly overlook in moral decision-making?

• Reasoning

• Authority

• Emotions

• Societal norms