According to Piaget's Cognitive Developmental Theory, at the preconventional level of moral development, individuals decide right and wrong based on which of the following?

• A. Internalized moral principles and universal ethical standards
• B. Personal consequences such as rewards and punishments
• C. A sense of empathy and concern for others' feelings
• D. Conformity to social rules and the desire to gain social approval

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that Piaget's Cognitive Developmental Theory focuses on how children's thinking evolves, including their moral reasoning.
2. Recognize that the preconventional level of moral development is the earliest stage where moral reasoning is primarily based on external consequences rather than internal principles.
3. Identify that at this level, individuals make decisions about right and wrong based on personal consequences, such as avoiding punishment or gaining rewards.
4. Contrast this with later stages where moral reasoning involves internalized principles or social approval, which are not characteristic of the preconventional level.
5. Conclude that the correct basis for moral decisions at the preconventional level is personal consequences like rewards and punishments.