Which stage in Kohlberg's Theory involves children identifying behavior as moral if it meets their needs?

In Kohlberg's Theory of Moral Development, the stage labeled as instrumental purpose is characterized by children understanding morality in terms of their own needs and benefits. At this stage, which is part of the pre-conventional level, children begin to see right and wrong through a pragmatic lens. They evaluate actions based on the direct outcomes for themselves, essentially viewing morality as a set of rules that should satisfy their personal desires or requirements.

This perspective emphasizes a self-focused interpretation of morality, where a behavior is considered "good" if it helps the child achieve a certain goal or fulfills their wants. The intention behind the actions is less about broader social norms or ethical considerations and more about the immediate implications for the individual.

The other stages, such as interpersonal or social systems, involve increasingly complex understandings of morality that take into account the expectations of others or the functioning of society as a whole, whereas the punishment/obedience stage focuses more on avoiding punishment through obedience to rules. Each of these subsequent stages represents a shift towards a more nuanced understanding of morality that moves beyond self-interest.