Moral development is thought to be a process, because moral development has been shown to typically occur in progressive steps or stages.
Both the statement and reason are correct and related.
Yes, moral development is thought to be a process because it occurs in systematic and progressive stages. Moral development refers to the changes that occur in an individual’s moral reasoning, values and behaviors throughout their lifespan. Psychologist Lawrence Kohlberg proposed a theory of moral development which outlined three levels of moral reasoning, each with two sub-stages, making a total of six stages in all. Kohlberg believed that an individual progresses through each of these stages in a sequential manner, and that individuals can only proceed to the next stage once they have adequately resolved the moral dilemmas of the previous stage.
The first level of moral reasoning, called the pre-conventional level, is typically seen in children who are between the ages of 4 and 10. At this stage, children make decisions based on external rewards and punishments. The next level, called the conventional level, is typically seen in young people and adults, and is characterized by making decisions based on societal norms, values, and expectations. The third and final level, called the post-conventional level, is characterized by making decisions based on personal principles and universal ethical considerations.
Therefore, moral development is considered a process because it is a systematic progression from one stage to the next throughout an individual’s lifespan. Each stage builds on the reasoning and values developed in previous stages, and individuals are thought to move through these stages in a predictable manner.
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