What describes the motivation to obey in conventional morality?

In the context of conventional morality, the motivation to obey is primarily driven by the influence of external authority figures. This phase of moral development, as outlined by psychologists such as Lawrence Kohlberg, emphasizes adherence to rules, laws, and the expectations of others to maintain social order and gain approval. Individuals at this stage typically care about the opinions of authority figures—such as parents, teachers, or legal systems—and are motivated to conform to societal standards to avoid disapproval or punishment.

Conventional morality often reflects a focus on the importance of maintaining relationships and social order. Individuals see value in following rules established by authoritative bodies and tend to view morality in more black-and-white terms. This reliance on external authorities signifies a shift from earlier stages of moral reasoning, where personal beliefs and individual ethics might have played a more significant role. As such, this understanding emphasizes the importance of external influences in shaping moral behavior during this developmental stage.