Introduction
Understanding how individuals develop a sense of right and wrong is central to psychology. Two major theorists who contributed significantly to our understanding of moral development are Jean Piaget and Lawrence Kohlberg. Both proposed stage-based models that explain how moral reasoning evolves from early childhood to adulthood.
Piaget’s Theory of Moral Development
Jean Piaget studied children’s moral reasoning by observing their behavior during games and rule-following activities. He proposed a two-stage theory:
1. Heteronomous Morality (Moral Realism)
- Occurs between ages 5–10 years
- Children view rules as fixed and unchangeable
- Morality is based on obedience and consequences
- They believe that breaking a rule always results in punishment, regardless of intent
2. Autonomous Morality (Moral Relativism)
- Develops after age 10
- Children understand that rules are created by people and can be changed
- They begin to consider intentions behind actions
- Justice is seen as flexible and based on fairness
Kohlberg’s Theory of Moral Development
Lawrence Kohlberg expanded on Piaget’s work by developing a more detailed model based on moral dilemmas. He identified three main levels, each with two stages:
1. Pre-Conventional Level (Typically children)
- Stage 1 – Obedience and Punishment: Right is what avoids punishment.
- Stage 2 – Instrumental Relativism: Right is what meets personal needs or gains rewards.
2. Conventional Level (Adolescents and adults)
- Stage 3 – Good Boy/Good Girl: Right is what pleases others and gains approval.
- Stage 4 – Law and Order: Right is doing one’s duty and respecting laws and authority.
3. Post-Conventional Level (Few adults reach this stage)
- Stage 5 – Social Contract: Right is based on agreed-upon rights and laws that promote welfare.
- Stage 6 – Universal Ethical Principles: Right is based on internal moral principles like justice and equality, even if it conflicts with laws.
Comparison Between Piaget and Kohlberg
- Both believe moral reasoning develops in stages and is influenced by cognitive growth.
- Piaget’s model ends in early adolescence, while Kohlberg extends into adulthood.
- Kohlberg’s theory is more comprehensive and includes societal and ethical dimensions.
Criticism of Kohlberg’s Theory
- Criticized for cultural and gender bias (Gilligan argued it overlooked care-based morality)
- Focuses on reasoning over actual behavior
Conclusion
Piaget and Kohlberg provided valuable insights into how moral understanding evolves. Piaget focused on early childhood rule understanding, while Kohlberg offered a broader view of moral development across the lifespan. Together, their theories emphasize the interplay of cognitive maturity, social interaction, and moral reasoning.