Which sequence correctly lists Kohlberg's stages from earliest to latest?

• A. Preconventional, Conventional, Postconventional
• B. Preconventional, Postconventional, Conventional
• C. Conventional, Preconventional, Postconventional
• D. Postconventional, Conventional, Preconventional

Answer: (B)

Kohlberg's theory describes moral development in three levels that build on each other. The earliest level, Preconventional, is about obedience and self-interest, where right and wrong are judged by personal consequences. The next level, Conventional, involves internalizing social norms and valuing conformity, rules, and maintaining social order. The highest level, Postconventional, centers on abstract principles, universal rights, and social contracts that may transcend existing laws or norms.

From earliest to latest, the sequence is Preconventional, Conventional, Postconventional. This order reflects moving from concrete, rule-based reasoning to conforming to societal expectations, and finally to principled reasoning about universal ethics. Sequences that place Postconventional before Conventional imply reaching abstract principles before internalizing social norms, which doesn’t align with how the theory describes progression.