In Kohlberg's theory, what is the preschool-level moral focus?

• A. Behavior that pleases others is considered good.
• B. Obedience to authority and rules at all times.
• C. Abstract principles of justice.
• D. Legal rights of individuals.

Answer: (A)

In Kohlberg’s view, younger children reason about morality based on external cues and social approval. The preschool years are characterized by wanting to please important people in their lives and to avoid disapproval. So judging an action as good because it would make others happy or proud reflects this stage of moral thinking: behavior is considered good if it earns praise or approval from others.

For example, a preschooler might share a toy because a caregiver would respond with praise or smiles, not because they’re applying a universal rule about fairness. The other ideas—obeying rules at all times, abstract principles of justice, or legal rights—belong to later stages of development and are not typical of preschool-level moral reasoning.