A child scolds her mother for littering because there is a sign saying not to do so. As per Kohlberg's theory of moral development, this example refers to which level of morality?

Correct option is C

In Lawrence Kohlberg’s theory of moral development, morality progresses through three levels:

-Pre-conventional morality (self-interest, avoiding punishment)
-Conventional morality (following rules, social norms)
-Post-conventional morality (moral principles, individual rights)

Correct Answer: (3) Conventional Morality
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Information Booster:
Kohlberg’s Theory consists of three levels and six stages of moral development.
1. Preconventional Level (Childhood - Egocentric Morality)
a. Stage 1: Obedience and Punishment Orientation – Morality is based on avoiding punishment. Right and wrong are determined by consequences.
b. Stage 2: Self-Interest Orientation (Instrumental Relativist) – Moral decisions are based on personal benefits, "What’s in it for me?" Reciprocity exists, but only if it serves self-interest.
2. Conventional Level (Adolescence - Social Approval Morality)
a. Stage 3: Interpersonal Accord and Conformity (Good Boy/Good Girl) – Morality is driven by social approval. Right behavior is what pleases others.
b. Stage 4: Authority and Social Order (Law and Order Orientation) – Moral reasoning is based on obeying laws, maintaining order, and fulfilling duties in society.
3. Postconventional Level (Adulthood - Abstract and Ethical Morality)
a. Stage 5: Social Contract Orientation – Morality is guided by laws and social contracts, but individuals recognize that laws should serve the greater good and can be changed if unjust.
b. Stage 6: Universal Ethical Principles – Highest moral reasoning, where individuals follow self-chosen ethical principles (e.g., justice, human rights) even if they conflict with laws.