In Lawrence Kohlberg's model, what is the first stage of the pre-conventional phase of morality?

The first stage of the pre-conventional phase of morality in Lawrence Kohlberg's model is the Punishment and Obedience stage. In this stage, moral reasoning is primarily based on the direct consequences of actions. Individuals, particularly children, assess whether an action is right or wrong by the risk of punishment rather than any broader social considerations. They obey rules to avoid punishment and focus on the physical consequences of their actions rather than their intentions or the effects on others.

This stage is characterized by a simplistic understanding of morality where actions are judged as good or bad based on the immediate, tangible outcomes that follow them—specifically, if they lead to punishment or reward. It reflects a fundamental level of moral reasoning that is typical in early childhood, where the authority of adults is paramount, and the fear of punishment plays a central role in moral development.

The other stages listed—such as the Social Contract Orientation and Good Girl, Nice Boy Orientation—represent more advanced stages of moral reasoning that involve principles of justice, fairness, or social approval, which come into play later in Kohlberg’s framework. The Instrumental Relativist Stage reflects a broader understanding of mutual benefit and is also part of the pre-conventional level but follows the Punishment and Ob