Education
What is a Preconventional Level of Morality?
The preconventional level of morality is a concept from Lawrence Kohlberg’s theory of moral development. It represents the earliest stage of moral reasoning, typically observed in children up to age 9. At this level, individuals make moral decisions based on self-interest and the consequences of their actions, rather than societal norms or ethical principles.
This level is divided into two stages:
- Obedience and Punishment Orientation: Here, children obey rules simply to avoid punishment. They don’t consider the broader implications of their actions or the perspectives of others.
- Self-Interest Orientation: At this stage, children recognize that others have their own interests. They may follow rules if it’s in their immediate self-interest, often engaging in a “what’s in it for me?” mentality.
Understanding the preconventional level is crucial for educators and parents in guiding children’s moral development and helping them progress to more advanced stages of ethical reasoning.