In Kohlberg's theory, which stage centers on actions based on self-interest and personal consequences?

• A. Conventional
• B. Post conventional
• C. Preconventional
• D. Moral relativism

Answer: (C)

Kohlberg’s stages of moral development separate how people justify right and wrong into levels by the authority they rely on. The described focus on actions based on self-interest and personal consequences fits the early level where morality is external and centered on the individual. At this preconventional level, behavior is judged by whether it brings rewards or helps the person avoid punishment. Within this level, the second stage specifically is about an instrumental, self-serving orientation—doing what benefits oneself or follows a direct exchange or reciprocity. It’s not yet about following laws or social approval (that’s the conventional level) or about abstract, universal principles (that’s the postconventional level). Moral relativism isn’t a stage in Kohlberg’s theory. So the idea of acting based on self-interest and personal consequences aligns with the preconventional level.