What are the stages of moral reasoning according to Kohlberg?

Kohlberg's stages of moral reasoning are foundational concepts in understanding how individuals develop their ethical decision-making and moral understanding over time. The correct choice reflects this developmental theory, which encompasses three main levels: Preconventional, Conventional, and Postconventional.

In the Preconventional stage, moral reasoning is primarily based on direct consequences to the individual—children typically make decisions based on avoidance of punishment or the desire for rewards. During the Conventional stage, individuals such as adolescents and many adults begin to internalize societal norms, emphasizing law, order, and maintaining good relationships with others. Finally, the Postconventional stage represents a more advanced form of moral reasoning, where individuals recognize broader principles of justice and ethics that may transcend specific laws or social agreements; they prioritize universal ethical principles over societal rules.

Understanding these stages enables individuals in the nursing profession to better comprehend their own moral development and that of their patients, facilitating empathetic and effective care through a deeper grasp of ethical considerations related to patient autonomy, justice, and societal norms.