THEORY OF MORAL DEVELOPMENT (KOHLBERG’S)
There are six stages of moral development:
1.
Punishment and Obedience Orientation: Child decides what is wrong on the basis of what is punished.
Obedience is valued for its own sake, but they obey because adults have
superior power.
2.
Individualization Instrumental Purpose & Exchange: A child follows rules when it is in its immediate interest. What
bring pleasant results is good for children. Its moral judgment depends upon
self interest and what it can get in return.
3.
Mutual, Interpersonal, Expectations, Relationships and
Interpersonal Conformity: The family or small group to which
the child belongs to becomes important. Moral actions are those that live up to
what is expected of you. ‘Being Good’ becomes important for its own sake and
the child generally values trust, loyalty, respect, gratitude and keeping
mutual relationships.
4.
Social System and Conscience, Law and Order Orientation: A shift in focus from the young person’s family and close groups
to the large society takes place in this stage. Fulfilling agreed upon duties,
contributing to society and upholding law except in extreme cases are
considered good.
5.
Social Contract or Utility and Individual Right: Children are aware that there are different views and values.
Values are understood as relative. They act to achieve “The greatest good for
the greatest numbers”.
6.
Universal Ethical Principles:
The young person develops and follows self chosen ethical principles in
determining what right. But when there is a difference between law and
conscience, conscience dominates.
The laws are changeable. Individual values are important and the
law should reflect those values. If they don’t do so, then the law should be
changed.
Kohlberg says “One can reason in terms of principles and live up to
those principles”. There is a direct relationship between moral reasoning &
moral behavior. Moral adults do not cross the second level and only a few cross
the 6th stage who bares this moral judgment.
Educational Implications:
1.
The school should provide congenial
environment for the children so as to inculcate moral values in them in a
natural way.
2.
The school should be sympathetic to
the problems of the children, especially those who adolescents. Adequate
arrangement for games, sports and other useful activities should be provided so
that children’s energies are redirected to fruitful channels.
3.
There should be arrangement to provide
healthy sex education.
4.
The ideals of patriotism, nationalism,
citizenship and self-sacrifice must be fostered in them.
5.
Many educational psychologists
advocate moral and ethical teaching in schools. However, moral education is
best imparted through example and practical representation of the best ideals
and values rather than through academic preaching of them. Both teachers and
parents should do their best to set the best example before their wards.
