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Moral competence as a positive youth development construct: conceptual bases and implications for curriculum
1Department of Education Studies, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong. hkma@hkbu.edu.hk
International Journal of Adolescent Medicine and Health
|October 31, 2006
Summary
This study defines moral competence, encompassing altruism and justice, to foster advanced moral reasoning in youth. The program aims to develop students
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Moral Development
- Education
Background:
- Moral competence integrates altruistic behavior orientation with advanced logical and consistent moral judgment.
- Existing literature on altruism and justice is reviewed, considering gender and cultural contexts.
- This work contributes to positive youth development initiatives in Hong Kong.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define and explore the multifaceted concept of moral competence.
- To outline program units designed to enhance students' moral reasoning and altruistic orientation.
- To support the development of a high level of justice in adolescent judgment.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis of altruism, justice, and moral competence.
- Discussion of gender and cultural factors influencing moral development.
- Presentation of a structured moral competence program with four key topic areas.
Main Results:
- Moral competence is characterized by both the inclination towards altruism and sophisticated moral judgment.
- The proposed program units cover fairness, proper conduct, responsibility, and integrity.
- The curriculum is designed to cultivate both an altruistic orientation and advanced justice reasoning.
Conclusions:
- Developing moral competence is crucial for positive youth development.
- The outlined program provides a framework for enhancing students' ethical understanding and behavior.
- Integrating concepts of fairness, altruism, and integrity is key to fostering advanced moral reasoning.
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