Psychology MCAT 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

In Kohlberg's theory of moral development, the stage that corresponds to authority and social order is the conventional stage. At this level, individuals begin to internalize societal norms and values, emphasizing the importance of maintaining order, law, and authority for the greater good of society. People in this stage consider the perspective of others and the responsibilities they have to uphold social conventions, which leads them to prioritize rules and social agreements.

This stage reflects a shift away from purely self-focused morality seen in the preconventional stage, where decisions are made based on personal gain or avoidance of punishment. In contrast, the conventional stage is characterized by a sense of duty and the belief that adhering to social rules is essential for societal stability. Consequently, moral reasoning in this stage is guided by a desire to fit in and fulfill societal roles, which include obeying laws and respecting authority figures.