Preconventional morality is the earliest stage of moral development, according to Lawrence Kohlbergs theory of moral development. It typically lasts until around the age of 9. At this stage, childrens decisions are based on external factors such as rewards and punishments. They follow rules because they dont want to get in trouble or they want to receive a reward. Preconventional morality has two stages:
- Punishment and obedience orientation: Children obey rules to avoid punishment.
- Instrumental purpose orientation: Children follow rules to satisfy their own needs.
At this stage, children have not yet adopted the moral principles of their society or culture. They do not yet have a sense of right and wrong based on their own internal values.
