Which statement best describes the Conventional level of Kohlberg's theory?

• A. Morality based on conforming to social norms and gaining approval
• B. Morality based on private gain
• C. Morality based on following one's conscience alone
• D. Morality based on fear of punishment

Answer: (A)

The Conventional level centers on conforming to social norms and gaining approval, as well as upholding duties to maintain social order. At this level, people judge actions by how they align with what is expected by others and by the rules of society, rather than by personal gain or by a detached sense of conscience. That’s why the statement about conforming to norms and seeking social approval best fits this level.

The other ideas reflect other parts of Kohlberg’s framework: acting for private gain aligns with early, self-interested reasoning; following one’s conscience alone points more to higher, postconventional reasoning; and acting from fear of punishment belongs to the earlier, obedience-focused stages.