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Moral Development Theories
Department of Education, Liberty University
EDLC 504
Professor Janet Richards
Understanding how individuals develop their reasoning is a crucial aspect of human growth and
it has been extensively studied by various theorists. Jean Piaget, Lawrence Kohlberg, Elliot Turiel and
Albert Bandura are among the contributors to this field. Each theory sheds light on the process through
Moral Development, Kohlbergs Theory of Moral Development Turiels Moral Domain Theory and
Banduras Theory of Moral Development through Social Learning. Additionally, I will explore the
similarities and differences between Piaget and Kohlberg well, as Turiel and Banduras theories. Finally, I
will examine one theory within a worldview framework and provide supporting scripture to illustrate its
alignment.
The theories put forth by Jean Piaget, Lawrence Kohlberg, Elliot Turiel and Albert Bandura have
significantly contributed to our understanding of how moral development takes place. Each theory
provides insights into how individuals develop their moral reasoning and values. In JC Gibbs book
"Education; Theory/Practice/Problems/Prospects" (1975) it is mentioned that Kohlberg and Turiel have
taken approaches in studying moral development by highlighting the importance of rational thinking
(Kohlberg, 1973a). Both theorists suggest that morality is not solely determined by norms but is a
cognitive process that evolves as an individual grows. Piagets Theory of Moral Development also
emphasizes the role of growth in shaping one's moral reasoning. However, Piaget focuses more on the
stages and sequences through which children develop their understanding of right and wrong. On the
hand Banduras Theory of Moral Development through Social Learning takes a different approach.
Bandura suggests that moral behavior is learned by observing and imitating others. He underscores the
significance of modeling and reinforcement in shaping conduct. Unlike Piaget, Kohlberg and Turiel
Banduras theory incorporates factors alongside cognitive processes. Despite their differences there are
also similarities among these theories. For instance, both Kohlbergs Theory of Moral Development and
Piagets theory highlight the significance of cognition in reasoning. They both suggest that individuals go
through stages as they grow morally with each stage representing a higher level of ethical
comprehension. Another similarity can be observed between Turiels Moral Domain Theory and
Banduras Theory of Moral Development through Social Learning. Both theories emphasize how social
context influences development. Turiel argues that children learn categories or domains where rules
may vary based on societal norms or the beliefs of authority figures (Gibbs). Similarly, Bandura proposes
that individuals acquire behaviors by observing and imitating others in their social surroundings. In
summary, Piaget, Kohlberg, Turiel and Bandura have made contributions to our understanding of moral
development. While each theory offers a perspective on the cognitive and social factors influencing
moral reasoning there are also noticeable similarities among them. These theories have played a role in
shaping our comprehension of how individuals develop their sense of right and wrong, providing
valuable insights into the complex process of moral development.
Integrating development theories with a biblical worldview is a crucial task for Christian
educators. According to the authors JR Estep and JH Kim in their book "Christian Formation; Integrating
Theology and Human Development" (2010) merging theology with theories of development offers a
unique Christian perspective on moral growth. This allows educators to have a worldview that aligns
with biblical principles (Estep & Kim). When it comes to selecting a theory that harmonizes with a
perspective, we can consider Albert Banduras Theory of Moral Development through Social Learning.
This theory emphasizes the significance of observation and imitation in acquiring behavior, which
resonates with the biblical idea of modeling righteous conduct. In Galatians 6;9 10 it is stated, "Let us
not grow weary in doing good for, at the time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as
we have opportunity let us do good to all people." This scriptural passage highlights the importance of
practicing goodness and treating others fairly. Bandura's theory suggests that individuals learn behaviors
by observing and imitating others within their social environment – an idea that echoes the biblical
message of emulating Christs example through our actions. Christian educators can create a nurturing
environment, for students by integrating Banduras Theory of Moral Development through Social
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Learning into their teaching practices. This approach does not help students comprehend ethical
principles but also provides real life examples of how these principles are applied. By combining
processes, social learning and biblical values this holistic approach promotes the overall moral
development of students.
Piagets Theory of Moral Development and Kohlbergs Theory of Moral Development have some
similarities. Both theories propose a progression of stages that individuals go through in their reasoning.
According to Piaget children experience two stages of moral development. Heteronomous morality and
autonomous morality. Similarly, Kohlberg suggests six stages of development grouped into three levels.
Pre conventional, conventional and post conventional. Another similarity is the focus on processes in
moral development. Piaget argues that children's moral reasoning is influenced by their abilities and
understanding of rules while Kohlberg believes that as individuals develop more complex cognitive
structures their moral reasoning also evolves.
However, there are differences between Piagets and Kohlbergs theories of moral development.
One major distinction is the age range each theory focuses on. Piaget primarily focuses on children's
development whereas Kohlbergs theory extends into adulthood. Additionally, Piaget emphasizes the
role of interactions and experiences in shaping moral understanding while Kohlberg places greater
emphasis on individual reasoning and decision making.
Another difference lies in their perspectives on morality itself. According to Piaget morality is
based on rules established by authority figures and external sources; whereas Kohlberg argues that
morality is rooted in principles and values. The two theories also have differences when it comes to how
they present the stages or levels of development. Piaget explains it with two stages while Kohlberg takes
a more detailed approach with six stages. In general, even though Piagets Theory of Moral Development
and Kohlbergs Theory of Moral Development share similarities in terms of progressing through stages
and the influence of cognitive processes they differ in terms of the age focus emphasis on social
interactions, versus individual reasoning and the presentation of various stages or levels of moral
development.
Turiels Moral Domain Theory and Banduras Theory of Moral Development through Social
Learning have both made contributions to our understanding of how people develop their sense of right
and wrong. One thing these theories have in common is their belief that social interactions play a role in
shaping moral behavior. According to Turiel individuals learn about morality by observing others and
engaging in discussions about issues (Turiel). Similarly, Bandura suggests that people acquire their values
and behaviors by watching and imitating the actions of others (Bandura). Both theories highlight the
influence of contexts on moral development.
Another similarity between Turiels theory and Bandura's theory is their recognition of aspects or
areas within morality. Turiel proposes three domains. Moral rules, social conventions and personal
preferences (Turiel). Each domain has its set of rules and expectations and individuals learn to
differentiate between them through socialization processes. Likewise, Bandura argues that moral
behavior can vary depending on the situation and context (Bandura). He states that individuals develop
a sense of ethics, where they adapt their behavior based on specific circumstances.
However, despite these similarities there are also differences, between Turiels theory and
Bandura's theory. One major distinction lies in their emphasis on various aspects of morality. Turiel
primarily focuses on the development of judgments and reasoning while Bandura emphasizes the
acquisition of moral behaviors through observational learning. Another difference can be seen in their
approaches to explaining how individuals acquire values. Turiel highlights the role of development in
shaping moral judgments, suggesting that as children grow older, they become more capable of grasping
complex moral concepts. On the hand Bandura underscores the significance of vicarious learning,
wherein individuals observe others being rewarded or punished for their actions and adjust their own
behavior accordingly. In summary both Turiels Moral Domain Theory and Banduras Theory of Moral
Development through Social Learning acknowledge the importance of interactions and recognize
different domains within morality. However, they diverge in terms of their focus on reasoning versus
moral behavior and their explanations for how individuals acquire moral values. These theories have
significantly contributed to our understanding of how individuals develop and provide valuable insights
into the intricacies of human morality.
In conclusion the moral development theories proposed by Piaget, Kohlberg, Turiel and Bandura
give us insights into how individuals shape their moral reasoning. Despite their differences, these
theories have elements like the role of social interaction and cognitive growth in influencing moral
judgments. However, they also vary in terms of their emphasis on aspects of morality like universal
principles or individual perspectives. When we consider a worldview in relation to these moral
development theories it's important to note that they are not explicitly founded on religious beliefs.
Nonetheless they can align with values that highlight the importance of building character and making
ethical decisions. By integrating a worldview with these theories, we can gain a comprehensive
understanding of moral development that combines secular psychological research findings with
spiritual principles.
References
Gibbs, John C. "The Piagetian approach to moral development: An overview." Values Education:
Theory/Practice/Problems/Prospects. eds. J. Meyer, B. Burnham, and J. Chovlat (1975): 51-64.
[1]
Estep, James R., and Jonathan H. Kim, eds. Christian formation: Integrating theology and human
development. B&H Publishing Group, 2010. [2]
Kavathatzopoulos, Iordanis. "Kohlberg and Piaget: Differences and similarities." Journal of Moral
Education 20.1 (1991): 47-54. [3]
Turiel, Elliot. "An experimental test of the sequentially of developmental stages in the child's moral
judgments." Journal of Personality and social psychology 3.6 (1966): 611. [4]
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