What phenomenon does moral development refer to according to Kohlberg?

Moral development, as defined by Lawrence Kohlberg, pertains specifically to the stages of moral reasoning that individuals progress through as they grow. Kohlberg proposed a theory comprising three main levels—pre-conventional, conventional, and post-conventional—each containing two distinct stages. These stages illustrate how individuals' concepts of morality evolve from a focus on obedience and punishment to a more nuanced understanding of social contracts and universal ethical principles.

This emphasis on stages of moral reasoning underscores that moral development is not merely about the acquisition of moral rules, but rather about the cognitive processes involved in ethical decision-making. As individuals advance through these stages, their ability to think about moral issues becomes increasingly sophisticated, reflecting deeper levels of understanding and reasoning regarding justice, rights, and ethical principles.

The options regarding emotional intelligence, developmental milestones, and behavioral conditioning do not encompass Kohlberg's framework, as they focus on different aspects of psychological and developmental processes. Hence, the focus on stages of moral reasoning accurately captures the essence of Kohlberg's contribution to our understanding of moral development.