Moral Development/Kohlberg Kohlberg's Theory of Moral Development: Therapeutic Implications Kohlberg continues to be a significant figure and influence on the field of psychology. He is well-known for his theory of moral development which details different stages of morality throughout one's life. Although the theory has faced criticisms, particularly due to a questionable generalization to all cultures, it continues to be a basis of knowledge and usefulness in practice. In regards to therapy, the theory of moral development may be influential in a therapist's conceptualization and diagnosis of a client, treatment, and view of the client.

Kohlberg's theory of development is a six stage theory. Kohlberg (1976) believed that the earliest stage of moral development entails obedience whereas the highest level of development involves reasoning with universal human ethics. As the individual grows through each of the stages actions become less focused on oneself and more focused on abstract principles. Kohlberg frequently used ethical dilemmas to evaluate the level of one's reasoning. Thus, as a therapist the knowledge of Kohlberg's theory can be influential in diagnosis of a client.

Developmental expectations may influence the diagnosis...

Kohlberg's theory leads the therapist to certain developmental expectations. For example, if a client is a young child and bases moral reasoning on obedience than this is to be expected. Part of treatment may include learning appropriate skills while working in the child's current schema. However, if an adult is in the obedience stage this would be an area of concern and a red flag that a psychiatric disorder may be present. Similarly, an adolescent may be driven by conformity and lack the ability to analyze situations from a universal morality perspective. As a therapist if one forces the client into too high of a stage prior to the individual being ready it may cause distress. Thus, knowledge of the developmental theory can assist the therapist in understanding the client's current perspective and way of thinking and alert the therapist to possible disorders.
Another area that Kohlberg's theory can be influential is in the process of treatment planning. Kohlberg (1976) asserted that stages must be followed and cognitive disequilibrium can occur when one is presented with a stage outside of the current development. However, Kohlberg furthered emphasized the development of morality through social interactions. More…