Which statement best describes Stage 1 of Kohlberg's Preconventional level?

• A. Judgments are based on whether behavior is rewarded or punished.
• B. Judgments are based on whether consequences result in benefits for self or others.
• C. Judgments are based on whether authorities approve or disapprove.
• D. Judgments are based on whether the behavior upholds/violates laws of society.

Answer: (A)

Stage 1 centers on avoiding punishment. In this early Preconventional stage, moral judgments are driven by external consequences: is the behavior rewarded or punished? If something leads to punishment, it’s wrong; if it avoids punishment or brings a reward, it’s acceptable. This focus on external outcomes and obedience to power figures is why the statement about judgments based on whether behavior is rewarded or punished best captures Stage 1.

The other options reflect motivations that appear in later stages: acting to gain personal rewards or reciprocity (Stage 2), seeking approval from authorities (Stage 3 or beyond), or following laws to maintain social order (Stage 4).