
Sargent's model of moral development
Sargent’s model of moral development describes how individuals develop their understanding of right and wrong through a series of stages. Initially, people base their morals on avoiding punishment and seeking rewards. As they grow, they begin to recognize social rules and expectations. Eventually, they internalize ethical principles and develop their own moral values, often guided by a sense of justice and fairness. The model suggests that moral development is a gradual process influenced by cognitive growth and social experiences, leading individuals to move from external authority to internal moral reasoning.