Theory of Moral Development

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 of an individual. 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 recent literature has shown that moral development can in part be fostered through role-taking, therapy, and exposure (Mwamwenda, 1992; Paone, Packman, Maddux, Cleborne, & Rothman, 2008). Thus, one area of treatment may involve challenging and exposing the client to the subsequent level of moral development. Therefore, being aware of Kohlberg's theory can help the clinician in helping an individual develop higher level of moral reasoning.

A therapist must also be aware of his or her viewpoints of the client's functioning based on Kohlberg's moral development. The theory may contribute to counter transference in viewing the client as less developed person. However, more current research has shown that individuals may function at different levels based on a situation (Paone et. al., 2008). Thus, being aware of one's viewpoints of moral development is crucial is developing proper treatment. Additionally, the belief that all must reach a universal morality is misleading and culturally biased (Sachdeva, Singhz, & Medin, 2011). Based on individual or group values, the stages of development may occur at a varied rate and certain stages may be valued more or less. Overall, having knowledge of one's own beliefs of moral development is important in recognizing counter transference that may enter the therapeutic relationship.