Kohlberg states that in these stages, higher levels of reasoning also contain the understanding of the lower reasoning stages. This “hierarchical integration” is due to the fact that these stages always move forward (Kohlberg & Hersh, 1977). Regression is only possible in cases of extreme trauma. …show more content…
Stage one is used before the age of nine, whereas most adolescents use stage three (Santrock, 2014). There are some adolescents who also use stages two and four. The postconventional level is only seen in a small number of individuals. Among twenty- to twenty-two- year old’s, stage five only made up ten percent of the moral reasoning in this age group (Santrock, 2014). Logan’s regression through college and his adult life show that the ages may also be a fluid part of this theory as well. When Logan and Rory are having the affair, they are full-fledged adults and should be past stage three according to Kohlberg. However, Logan shows characteristics of stage two reasoning. Thus, his regression of moral reasoning is bringing him down to the level of moral reasoning that an adolescent would …show more content…
Kohlberg left no room for regression which, as we can see with Logan, is most likely possible. Although the stages do describe the reasoning behind moral decisions, the age ranges made things a bit murky. These types of age-related differences in the stages may need to be reevaluated when there is regression and non-normal age categorization into the stages, such as in Logan’s circumstance. From Logan, we can also see the impact that parents can have on their child’s moral development. Being that Kohlberg discounted the parent’s role, expansion of outside influences may need to be expanded upon. Also, we saw how feelings of shame can lead to more risk taking behavior and thus a lower level of moral reasoning. In conclusion, while Kohlberg’s Theory had some issues, it still described the moral reasoning behind certain circumstances that we face in