According to Kohlberg which level of moral development of a child shows no internalization of moral values and the moral reasoning of the child is controlled by external rewards and punishment ?

Question

Accepted Answer

According to Lawrence Kohlberg's theory of moral development, the correct answer is Option 1: Preconventional level. This level is characterized by a lack of internalization of moral values. Instead, a child's moral reasoning at this stage is primarily influenced by external factors such as rewards and punishments. The preconventional level is the first stage of moral development and typically occurs in children. It consists of two sub-stages:

1. **Obedience and Punishment Orientation**: At this sub-stage, children obey rules to avoid punishment. Their understanding of morality is based on the direct consequences of their actions.

2. **Individualism and Exchange**: Here, children recognize that there is not just one right view handed down by authorities. They begin to understand that different individuals have different viewpoints, and they follow rules when it is in their immediate interest.

Now, let's explain why the other options are incorrect:

2. **Conventional Level**: This level involves the internalization of moral values to some extent. Individuals at this stage are concerned with maintaining social order and gaining approval from others. They adhere to rules and laws because they believe it is important for societal functioning, not just for personal gain or avoidance of punishment.

3. **Postconventional Level**: At this level, individuals have fully internalized moral values. They follow universal ethical principles and are guided by their conscience. Moral reasoning is based on abstract reasoning and principles that transcend specific laws or social conventions.

4. **Universal Ethical Principle**: This is a sub-stage of the postconventional level where individuals follow self-chosen ethical principles. These principles are abstract and universal, such as justice, dignity, and equality. Moral reasoning at this stage is highly internalized and independent of external rewards or punishments.

In summary, Option 1: Preconventional is the correct answer because it accurately describes the stage where a child's moral reasoning is controlled by external rewards and punishments, with no internalization of moral values. The other options involve varying degrees of internalization and are not characterized by external control of moral reasoning.