The child is responsive to rules and evaluative labels, but views them in terms of pleasant or unpleasant consequences of actions, or in terms of the physical power of those who impose the rules. Obedience and punishment orientation Egocentric deference to superior power or prestige, or a trouble-avoiding set. Relativism of values to each actor's needs and perspectives. Naive egalitarianism,orientation to exchange and reciprocity. Conformity to stereotypical images of majority or natural role behavior.
Action is evaluated in terms of intentions.
Regard for earned expectations of others. The standards conformed to are internal, and action-decisions are based on an inner process of thought and judgement concerning right and wrong. When conflict arises between individual needs and law or contract, though sympathetic to the former, the individual believes the latter must prevail because of its greater functional rationality for society, the majority will and welfare. Action is controlled by internalized ideals that exert a pressure to act accordingly regardless of the reactions of others in the immediate environment. If one acts otherwise, self-condemnation and guilt result.