Preconventional Level

Definition

The preconventional level is the earliest stage of moral development in Kohlberg's theory of moral reasoning. At this level, an individual's moral judgments are primarily based on avoiding punishment and seeking rewards, rather than on internalized moral principles or societal expectations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The preconventional level is the earliest and most basic stage of moral development in Kohlberg's theory, typically observed in young children.
2. At this level, individuals judge the morality of an action based on its direct consequences, such as rewards or punishments, rather than on any internalized moral principles.
3. The preconventional level is characterized by a focus on self-interest and a lack of understanding of societal rules and expectations.
4. Individuals at the preconventional level are more likely to engage in morally questionable behavior if they believe they can avoid punishment or gain a personal benefit.
5. Progression beyond the preconventional level is a key milestone in an individual's moral development, as they begin to internalize moral standards and consider the perspectives of others.

Review Questions

• Describe the key characteristics of the preconventional level of moral development in Kohlberg's theory.
  • The preconventional level of moral development is characterized by a focus on avoiding punishment and seeking rewards, rather than on internalized moral principles or societal expectations. At this level, an individual's moral judgments are primarily based on the direct consequences of their actions, such as whether they will be punished or rewarded. Individuals at the preconventional level tend to have a limited understanding of societal rules and expectations, and their moral decision-making is heavily influenced by self-interest and a desire to satisfy their own needs.
• Explain how the two stages of the preconventional level, the Punishment and Obedience Orientation and the Instrumental Relativist Orientation, differ in their approach to moral reasoning.
  • The Punishment and Obedience Orientation, the first stage of the preconventional level, is characterized by a focus on avoiding punishment from authority figures, such as parents or teachers. Individuals at this stage make moral decisions solely based on the potential for punishment, with little to no consideration for the underlying moral principles or the needs of others. In contrast, the Instrumental Relativist Orientation, the second stage of the preconventional level, is characterized by a focus on pursuing one's own interests and satisfying personal needs, with little regard for societal rules or the welfare of others. Individuals at this stage make moral decisions based on what will benefit them the most, rather than on any internalized moral standards.
• Discuss the significance of the preconventional level of moral development in the context of Kohlberg's theory and its implications for an individual's moral growth and decision-making.
  • The preconventional level of moral development is a crucial starting point in Kohlberg's theory, as it represents the most basic and self-centered stage of moral reasoning. Individuals at this level have not yet internalized moral principles or societal expectations, and their moral judgments are primarily based on avoiding punishment and seeking personal rewards. This limited perspective on morality can have significant implications for an individual's decision-making and behavior, as they may be more likely to engage in morally questionable actions if they believe they can avoid negative consequences. However, the preconventional level is also a necessary precursor to higher levels of moral development, as individuals must first recognize the existence of external moral standards before they can begin to internalize and apply them. Progression beyond the preconventional level is a key milestone in an individual's moral growth, as they start to consider the perspectives of others and develop a more nuanced understanding of moral principles and societal expectations.

Related terms

Kohlberg's Theory of Moral Development: A theory of moral development proposed by Lawrence Kohlberg, which outlines six stages of moral reasoning across three levels: preconventional, conventional, and postconventional.

Punishment and Obedience Orientation: The first stage of the preconventional level, where an individual's moral decisions are based solely on avoiding punishment and obeying authority figures.

Instrumental Relativist Orientation: The second stage of the preconventional level, where an individual's moral decisions are based on pursuing their own interests and satisfying their own needs, with little regard for the needs of others.