Which theorist is primarily associated with moral development?

Lawrence Kohlberg is primarily associated with moral development due to his influential theory that builds on Jean Piaget's earlier work. Kohlberg proposed a stage theory outlining how individuals progress through different levels of moral reasoning. He identified three main levels — pre-conventional, conventional, and post-conventional — each containing two stages, describing how moral understanding evolves with age and cognitive development. This approach emphasizes that moral reasoning develops as a result of social interactions and the ability to consider different perspectives, moving from a focus on consequences to a more principled understanding of justice and ethics.

Kohlberg’s research includes classic studies involving moral dilemmas, where he analyzed how individuals justify their decisions. This work has had a profound impact on our understanding of moral development and has been fundamental in educational and psychological contexts, highlighting the complexities of moral reasoning throughout the lifespan.