Which statement is NOT a characteristic of the conventional level of Kohlberg's moral development?

Which statement is NOT a characteristic of the conventional level of Kohlberg's moral development?

• A. Obeying Rules, Showing Respect For Authority, And Pleasing Others
• B. Making Decisions Based On Internal Ethical Principles
• C. Respecting Authority
• D. Adhering To Social Norms

Answer: (B)

Conventional level centers on conforming to expectations and maintaining social order. At this stage, decisions are driven by the desire to please others, respect authority, and follow the rules and norms of the group. The statement about making decisions based on internal ethical principles fits a later, postconventional level where judgments arise from universal principles rather than social expectations. Therefore, that option is not characteristic of the conventional level. The other statements—obeying rules, showing respect for authority, and adhering to social norms—align with conforming to what is expected in society.

Conventional level centers on conforming to expectations and maintaining social order. At this stage, decisions are driven by the desire to please others, respect authority, and follow the rules and norms of the group. The statement about making decisions based on internal ethical principles fits a later, postconventional level where judgments arise from universal principles rather than social expectations. Therefore, that option is not characteristic of the conventional level. The other statements—obeying rules, showing respect for authority, and adhering to social norms—align with conforming to what is expected in society.