Level 1 (Pre-Conventional) - Moral reasoning is based on the consequence/result of the act, not on the whether the act itself is good or bad. 

• • Obedience and punishment orientation: Whatever lead to punishment is wrong.

  • Self- interest orientation (What is in it for me?): The right way to behave is the way that is rewarded.

Level 2 (Conventional) - Moral Reasoning is based on the conventions or “norms” of society. This may include approval of others, law and order.

• Interpersonal accord and conformity (The good boy/good girl attitude): Behaving in ways that conform to good behavior

• Authority and social order maintaining orientation (Law and order morality): importance of “doing one’s duty”

Level 3 (Post Conventional) - Moral reasoning is based on enduring or consistent principles. It is not just recognizing the law, but the principles behind the law. 

•  Social contract orientation: Recognition that rules should sometimes be broken, especially if found unjust

•  Universal ethical principles (Principled conscience): Takes account of likely views of everyone affected by a moral decision.