US High School Psychology Complete Practice Exam 2026

Lawrence Kohlberg is recognized for his contributions to the understanding of moral development, specifically through his theory outlining six stages organized into three main levels: pre-conventional, conventional, and post-conventional morality. Kohlberg's research was influenced by Piaget's work on children's cognitive development, but Kohlberg diverged to focus specifically on moral reasoning and ethical behavior throughout an individual's life.

His stages illustrate how people's moral reasoning matures as they progress through different phases of development, influenced by cognitive abilities and social interactions. This framework allows for an assessment of how individuals justify their moral decisions, reflecting a progression from obedience to authority, through societal norms, to the application of universal ethical principles. Understanding Kohlberg's stages helps in comprehending how individuals may approach moral dilemmas at different ages or developmental stages.