Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Practice Examination

Which of the following is NOT a stage in Kohlberg’s moral development theory?

1. Punishment/Obedience Orientation

2. Naive Hedonism

3. Social contract

4. Emotional Ethics

The correct answer is: Emotional Ethics

In Kohlberg's moral development theory, several distinct stages describe how individuals evolve in their understanding of morality. The correct response highlights that "Emotional Ethics" is not one of these recognized stages. Kohlberg's framework includes several well-defined stages within three main levels: pre-conventional, conventional, and post-conventional. Each stage represents a progression in moral reasoning, starting from a focus on obedience and punishment to more complex concepts such as social contracts and ethical principles. The stages listed in the other options, such as "Punishment/Obedience Orientation," "Naive Hedonism," and "Social Contract," are indeed parts of this theory. "Punishment/Obedience Orientation" emphasizes obedience to authority, "Naive Hedonism" (often referred to as individualism and exchange) highlights self-interest in moral reasoning, and "Social Contract" deals with understanding that laws are based on social agreements and aimed at the greater good. Emotional Ethics, however, does not align with Kohlberg's stages and is not recognized as a facet of his moral development model. This distinction helps clarify the structured approach Kohlberg took in categorizing moral reasoning, relying on cognitive development rather than emotional responses.