Moral Development Theory
Moral development theory explores how individuals evolve in their understanding of right and wrong, shaping their ethical reasoning and behavior. This fascinating field of study has its roots in psychology and philosophy, offering insights into the progression of moral reasoning across different stages of life. Image: cholonautas A. Origin of Moral Development Theory The foundation of moral development theory can be traced back to the works of Jean Piaget , a Swiss psychologist renowned for his studies on cognitive development in children. Piaget observed that children's moral reasoning changes as they grow, transitioning from rigid adherence to rules to a more flexible understanding of fairness and justice. Building on Piaget's ideas, Lawrence Kohlberg , an American psychologist, developed the most influential framework for moral development in the mid-20th century. Kohlberg's theory, inspired by Piaget's wo...