US High School Psychology Practice Exam

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Prepare for the US High School Psychology Exam with engaging flashcards and comprehensive multiple choice questions. Each question is detailed with hints and explanations to ensure a successful outcome. Focus your study efforts and excel in your exam!

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Which developmental theorist proposed the stages of moral development?

Sigmund Freud
Erik Erikson
Lawrence Kohlberg
Jean Piaget

The correct answer is: Lawrence Kohlberg

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.