Out of following which is not the stage given by Kohlberg in his Moral Development theory ?

Q: Out of following which is not the stage given by Kohlberg in his Moral Development theory ?

Out of following which is not the stage given by Kohlberg in his Moral Development theory ?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is (4):
The correct option is Unconventional stage because it is **not** a level in Lawrence Kohlberg's influential Theory of Moral Development. Kohlberg's model, which is one of the most widely studied theories in developmental psychology, divides moral reasoning into three distinct, universal levels, each containing two stages. The term 'Unconventional stage' is a distracter and has no formal place in this established framework.

The incorrect option is (1):
Pre conventional stage is the first and lowest level of Kohlberg's theory. This level, typically seen in children, is characterized by an external and egocentric view of morality. Moral decisions at this level are primarily driven by the immediate, physical consequences of actions, meaning the focus is solely on avoiding punishment (Stage 1) or maximizing personal reward and self-interest through a "what's in it for me" perspective (Stage 2). The individual has not yet internalized the moral standards of society.

The incorrect option is (2):
Conventional stage is the second level of moral development, commonly observed in adolescents and most adults. At this level, the individual internalizes the moral standards of adult role models and the group to which they belong. Moral reasoning shifts from self-interest to social conformity, focusing on maintaining good relationships and winning the approval of others ("good boy/good girl" orientation - Stage 3), and upholding the law and social order (Stage 4) to ensure a functioning society.

The incorrect option is (3):
Post conventional stage is the third and highest level of moral development, which few individuals are believed to reach. At this advanced level, morality is defined in terms of abstract, self-chosen ethical principles that apply universally to all humanity, such as justice, equality, and human dignity. An individual at this level understands that rules and laws are social contracts that can be challenged or even broken if they violate these universal ethical principles (Stage 5 and Stage 6).