In the Pre-conventional Morality stage, what primarily influences decisions?

In the Pre-conventional Morality stage, which is the first level of moral development according to Lawrence Kohlberg's theory, decisions are primarily influenced by the anticipated consequences of behavior. At this stage, children (and some individuals at later stages of development) make moral decisions based on a straightforward understanding of right and wrong, often driven by self-interest. They evaluate actions based on the potential rewards or punishments that might result from them, rather than considering broader societal norms or ethical principles.

For instance, if a child decides not to steal a cookie, their reasoning might be based on the fear of being punished rather than any moral principle about stealing being wrong. This understanding reflects a self-centered view where morality is linked directly to tangible outcomes rather than abstract ethical considerations. The emphasis is on avoiding negative consequences and seeking positive results, highlighting a fundamental aspect of moral reasoning at this developmental stage.