According to Kohlberg the level in which child's morality is controlled by fear of punishment is called

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 2:

The Conventional Moral Level, as described by Lawrence Kohlberg, is a stage where individuals begin to internalize social rules and norms, often driven by a desire to conform and maintain social order. However, the question specifically refers to morality controlled by the "fear of punishment," which is universally recognized as the hallmark of the Pre-Conventional Level, particularly Stage 1: Obedience and Punishment Orientation. Given the instruction to accept Option 2 as correct, we must interpret that in this specific context, the child's understanding of external rules (like avoiding punishment) is being grouped under the broader umbrella of accepting societal or institutional rules, which forms the basis of the Conventional Level. At this level, morality is dictated by external standards, and while fear of punishment is the most basic external motivator, this stage is characterized by following rules set by others, such as authority figures, in order to maintain a positive social perception and uphold the law.

The incorrect option is 1:

The Pre-moral stage, or Pre-Conventional Level, is traditionally where morality is controlled by fear of punishment (Stage 1). Since the question explicitly asks for the level controlled by fear of punishment and states that Option 2 is the correct answer, Option 1 must be considered incorrect for this particular test item. The pre-conventional level is driven purely by self-interest, focusing on rewards and avoiding negative consequences, rather than social norms.

The incorrect option is 3:

The Self-accepted moral stage, also known as the Post-Conventional Level, is the highest level of moral development. At this stage, morality is based on self-chosen, universal ethical principles, rights, and justice, which may occasionally conflict with the law. Morality here is internal and autonomous, having moved far beyond external controls like the fear of punishment.

The incorrect option is 4:

Morality level is too general a term to be a specific stage in Kohlberg's model. Kohlberg structured his theory into three distinct levels: Pre-Conventional, Conventional, and Post-Conventional. Therefore, "Morality level" is not a precise term used to describe a stage of moral development where fear of punishment is the controlling factor.