Moral development: a differential evaluation of dominant models.

Area of Science:

• Developmental Psychology
• Moral Philosophy
• Nursing Ethics

Background:

• Prevailing models of moral development lack comprehensive evaluation.
• Understanding moral development is crucial for ethical decision-making in healthcare.
• Existing models may have limitations regarding empirical support and practical application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically examine and evaluate the evidence supporting prominent moral development models.
• To assess models based on empirical relevance, intersubjectivity, and usefulness.
• To discuss theoretical congruency and potential sex role bias in these models.

Main Methods:

• Review of classical psychoanalytic theory model.
• Analysis of Kohlberg's and Gilligan's cognitive developmental models.
• Evaluation of the social learning theory model.

Main Results:

• Evidence supporting each model's empirical relevance, intersubjectivity, and usefulness was assessed.
• Theoretical congruency and sex role bias were considered for each model.
• The review identified strengths and weaknesses of each model in relation to moral development.

Conclusions:

• The article concludes by discussing the current application of these moral development models within the nursing profession.
• Recommendations for the use and further development of moral development models in nursing are implied.
• A comprehensive understanding of model limitations is essential for effective nursing practice.