Which statement describes Conventional Morality?

• A. Self-interest-based decisions
• B. Based on others' expectations
• C. Based on a personal code
• D. Based on laws alone

Answer: (B)

Conventional Morality centers on conforming to social norms and what others expect to see in you. At this stage, people act in ways that fit the expectations of their group and strive to be viewed as good by those around them. That’s why describing it as based on others’ expectations is the best fit. It reflects the aim of maintaining social approval and order, rather than acting out of personal gain or solely following internalized principles.

Self-interest-based decisions point to earlier, preconventional thinking where actions are driven by personal benefit. A personal code points to postconventional morality, where universal principles guide choices. Relying on laws alone misses the social-approval element that characterizes conventional morality, though laws do play a role in maintaining order.