This is the Chapter 14 of the book How Children Develop (Robert Siegler, 1st Edition). Which is content for the exam of the Theory component of Module 2 (Social Behaviour) of the University of Twente, in the Netherlands.

Ch.14: Moral Development

Moral Judgment:

Morality in certain actions is no obvious, hence reasoning is crucial

Piaget’s Theory of Moral Judgment:

• Heteronomous Morality: [age < 7]. Right and wrong as basis to determine consequences. Rules are perceived as real and unchangeable
• Transitional Period: [7-10 years old]. Increased active role in reasoning of right or wrong. Peer interaction is very influential
• Autonomous Morality: [11-12 years old]. Consider motives and intentions when assessing behaviour. No longer blindly accepting rules

Kohlberg’s Theory:

• Theory of Moral Judgment (Kohlberg): describes stages that are discontinuous and hierarchical
  • Level 1: Preconventional level: self-centred, focusing on getting rewarded and avoiding punishment
    • Phase 1: punishment and obedience orientation
    • Phase 2: Instrumental and exchange orientation
  • Level 2: Conventional Level: influenced by social relationships. Wish to comply with social rights and laws
    
    • Phase 3: Mutual interpersonal expectations and conform with them
    • Phase 4: Social system and perceived idea of that system
  • Level 3: Post-conventional/Principled Level: holding ideals and moral principles
    
    • Phase 5: Social contracts and individual rights orientation
    • Phase 6: Universal ethical principles

Social Domain Theory f Moral Development:

• Moral Domain: social knowledge related to wrong, fair and justice
• Socio-conventional Domain: social knowledge related to regulations that ensure social coordination, and organization in society (e.g. dress code,…)
• Personal Domain: social knowledge related to actions preferences of individual as central drive.

Conscience:

Internal control mechanism that increases ability to conform to accepted behavioue

• Limits: antisocial or destructive behaviour
• Promotes: compliance with rules and prosocial behaviour (e.g. guilt)
• Influenced by temperament and culture