According to cognitive moral development theory, individuals move to a higher reasoning stage:
A) Every time they encounter a more difficult ethical dilemma.
B) When there is a contradiction between his or her current moral reasoning stage and the next higher one.
C) As they grow older.
D) None of the above. An individual's level of moral reasoning does not change after he or she becomes an adult.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cognitive moral development theory suggests that individuals move to a higher moral reasoning stage when there is a contradiction between their current stage and the next higher one. This is because the contradiction creates cognitive conflict, which prompts individuals to reexamine and adjust their moral beliefs and principles. While difficult ethical dilemmas can certainly create a contradiction, there may be other factors involved in prompting individuals to move to a higher stage. Additionally, while age may be correlated with moral reasoning development, it is not a direct causal factor.

According to Cognitive Moral Development Theory, Individuals Move to a Higher