According to Kohlberg's theory of moral development, the 'conventional morality' level is related to which age group?
Detailed Explanation
📌 Core Theoretical Concept:
Lawrence Kohlberg's theory of moral development is structured around three distinct levels, with each level containing two stages. The second level, known as 'Conventional Morality', typically corresponds to the age group of 10 to 13 years. During this stage, children and early adolescents internalize the standards of role models, rules, and societal expectations. They strive to conform to social norms, gain the approval of others, and maintain social order. This level encompasses the 'Good Boy/Nice Girl' orientation and the 'Law and Order' orientation stages. Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer as it accurately designates the developmental age bracket for conventional moral reasoning.
📊 Key Exam Points:
- The first level, 'Pre-conventional Morality', spans from birth to approximately 9 years of age.
- The second level, 'Conventional Morality', is prominently observed in children aged 10 to 13 years.
- The third level, 'Post-conventional Morality', emerges from age 13 onwards or during adulthood, governed by abstract and universal ethical principles.
- Distractors (a), (b), and (d) map incorrectly to early childhood or infancy stages where true conventional reasoning has not yet developed.
📖 Theoretical Reference: Kohlberg formulated his stage theory by presenting moral dilemmas, most notably the 'Heinz Dilemma', to children and adolescents. For comprehensive teaching pedagogy, understanding Kohlberg's Theory of Moral Development is essential for fostering ethical reasoning in school environments.