In which stage of Kohlberg's moral development do individuals seek to please authority figures?

In Kohlberg's theory of moral development, the first stage, often referred to as the punishment-and-obedience orientation, centers on the importance of adhering to laws and rules as a means of avoiding punishment. At this stage, individuals are primarily focused on the consequences of their actions, particularly in relation to authority figures. They view moral judgments through a lens that prioritizes obedience, with the belief that following rules is inherently good.

Therefore, individuals in this stage tend to seek to please authority figures as a way to maintain order and avoid negative repercussions. Their understanding of morality is more about the reactions and expectations of those in power rather than an internalized sense of right and wrong. This concept is central to understanding early moral reasoning, where the perspective is limited primarily to personal consequences rather than broader ethical principles.

As individuals advance to the later stages of Kohlberg's model, their moral reasoning becomes more nuanced, encompassing notions of societal laws and individual rights, thus moving beyond mere obedience to authority.