Describe Kohlberg's model of cognitive moral development. Give an example for each of the stages.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answer: Student examples will vary but should demonstrate an accurate knowledge of Kohlberg's model of cognitive moral development. Kohlberg's model of cognitive moral development classifies people into categories based on their level of moral judgment. People in the preconventional stage make decisions based on rewards and punishments and immediate self-interest. For example, a manager works long hours of overtime to receive a bonus, even though in the long term he harms his relationship with his family. People in the conventional stage conform to the expectations of ethical behavior held by groups or institutions such as society, family, or peers. For example, a business owner expects his employees to be honest and hard working. People in the principled stage see beyond authority, laws, and norms to follow their self-chosen ethical principles. For example, even though her factory already abides by pollution standards, a factory owner strives to cut down harmful emissions by a greater percentage to slow down global warming.