Which of the following best describes Kohlberg's preconventional stage of moral development?

• A. Moral reasoning is based on abstract principles and the recognition of universal ethical values.
• B. Moral reasoning is based on avoiding punishment and seeking personal gain.
• C. Moral reasoning is guided by social approval and maintaining social order.
• D. Moral reasoning is determined by strict adherence to laws regardless of personal beliefs.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that Kohlberg's theory of moral development is divided into three main levels: preconventional, conventional, and postconventional, each with distinct characteristics.
2. Focus on the preconventional level, which is typically observed in children and is characterized by moral reasoning based on direct consequences to the self rather than societal rules or abstract principles.
3. Recognize that within the preconventional stage, individuals make moral decisions primarily to avoid punishment or to gain rewards, reflecting a self-centered perspective.
4. Compare the given options to these characteristics: the correct description should emphasize avoiding punishment and seeking personal gain, which aligns with the preconventional stage.
5. Eliminate options that describe moral reasoning based on social approval, maintaining social order, or abstract ethical principles, as these correspond to the conventional and postconventional stages.