Conventional level

Definition

The conventional level is the second stage in Kohlberg's Theory of Moral Development, where individuals make moral decisions based on societal norms and the expectations of others. At this level, people focus on maintaining relationships, fulfilling social roles, and adhering to laws and rules to gain approval or avoid disapproval from others. This stage reflects a broader understanding of morality as it relates to the larger community and societal standards.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Individuals at the conventional level seek to maintain social order by following rules and laws established by society.
2. This level emphasizes interpersonal relationships, as people are motivated by the desire to be seen as 'good' by others.
3. The conventional level is typically associated with adolescents and adults who are navigating their roles within society.
4. Moral decisions made at this level are heavily influenced by peer pressure and the expectations of authority figures.
5. Critics of Kohlberg's theory suggest that moral reasoning can vary significantly across different cultures, impacting how the conventional level is understood globally.

Review Questions

• How does the conventional level differ from the pre-conventional level in terms of moral decision-making?
  • The conventional level differs from the pre-conventional level primarily in its focus on societal norms and relationships. While individuals at the pre-conventional level base their decisions on personal consequences, such as punishment or reward, those at the conventional level consider what is expected by society. This means that actions are taken to uphold laws and gain approval from others rather than solely for self-interest.
• Discuss the importance of social roles in shaping moral reasoning at the conventional level.
  • Social roles play a critical role in shaping moral reasoning at the conventional level because individuals align their actions with societal expectations. By fulfilling roles such as being a student, employee, or community member, people assess their behavior based on how it affects others and the need to conform to established rules. This alignment with social roles helps maintain harmony within groups and promotes cooperation among individuals.
• Evaluate the implications of Kohlberg's conventional level for understanding moral education in diverse cultural contexts.
  • Evaluating the implications of Kohlberg's conventional level highlights the need for a more inclusive approach to moral education that considers cultural diversity. Since different cultures have varying norms and values that influence moral reasoning, educators should recognize that a one-size-fits-all model may not be effective. Understanding that some cultures prioritize communal values over individual ones can lead to more effective teaching strategies that respect these differences while fostering moral development aligned with the conventional level.

Related terms

pre-conventional level: The first stage in Kohlberg's Theory of Moral Development, where moral reasoning is based on individual needs and external consequences, such as punishment or reward.

post-conventional level: The third stage in Kohlberg's Theory of Moral Development, where individuals develop their own ethical principles and reason based on universal values, often questioning societal norms.

moral reasoning:

The process by which individuals determine what is right or wrong, often influenced by cognitive development and societal expectations.