Psychology MCAT Practice Exam

Which stage of Kohlberg's moral development includes obedience and self-interest?

1. Preconventional

2. Conventional

3. Postconventional

4. Ethical

The correct answer is: Preconventional

The reasoning behind selecting the preconventional stage of Kohlberg's moral development lies in its focus on the early stages of moral reasoning in children. This stage is characterized by an emphasis on obedience to authority and the pursuit of self-interest. Individuals in the preconventional stage make decisions based on the direct consequences of their actions, such as avoiding punishment or seeking rewards. Obedience, in this context, refers to the expectation that children will follow rules to avoid negative outcomes, while self-interest highlights decisions driven by personal gain. This stage typically applies to children and forms the foundation for subsequent moral development, as they start to understand broader social rules and ethical principles in later stages. In contrast, the conventional and postconventional stages build on more complex moral reasoning that involves adherence to societal norms and consideration of universal ethical principles, respectively. Ethical, while a term commonly associated with morality, is not one of Kohlberg's defined stages and thus does not apply here.