Describe two types of biases critics have leveled at Kohlberg's theory. Do you believe these criticisms are well grounded?
1. Critics found Kohlberg's work to have a strong cultural bias. His work placed an emphasis on ideals found in Western cultures, such as individual rights and social justice. Americans hold the belief that what is fair is right, while Indians place high value on interpersonal responsibilities.
2. Psychologist Carol Gilligan reveals a strong gender bias in Kohlberg's theories. Kohlberg's theories suggest that men can obtain a higher level of moral development than woman can. Gilligan believes that this is untrue. Kohlberg's studies are all male based, so the women's voices aren't heard. While women tend to be more care oriented and men justice oriented, their abilities to achieve high moral development are not unbalanced.
I believe these criticisms to be true. His theories apply very well in the Western culture, but they aren't universally true. Each culture has a slightly different moral code, because of the varying emphasis on morality. For example, while one culture believes that it is okay to tell a small lie, some cultures may be founded on complete honesty. The gender bias is also well grounded. Kohlberg's theories, though unintentional, lead one to believe that women are lesser than men. Women are just as capable of achieving a high level of morality and cognitive development, they simply have different natural tendencies than men. Men are very justice oriented, while women take a more care oriented approach.
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Teens live by the subconscious belief that they are under constant speculation by their peers. This is known as an Imaginary Audience. They feel as though they are the constant center of attention and their body and clothes are being critiqued. This is the reason why teens spend so long getting ready. They want to be perfect for the world. Unfortunately, this self consciou
sness is all in their heads. I remember my freshman year thinking that any look in my direction was to laugh at a huge zit on my cheek. I felt so embarrassed everyday. Now, I couldn't care less. Everyone has acne, embrace it!
Teens also have an exaggerated sense of uniqueness and invulnerability known as a personal fable. This leads teens to engage in higher risk activities because "it could never happen to me". They feel invincible in this sense. Teens also believe that any experiences they have are completely unique and "no one can possibly understand them". This leads teens to alienate their parents because they don't think their parents can relate to them whatsoever. I have a few friends who live reckless lives, simply because it's fun. I don't think they truly think through the possible consequences of their actions. I'm always afraid that it will all catch up with them someday, and I sincerely hope it doesn't.
Teens need their parents more than ever. However, there are a few things that parents need to understand in order to help their child succeed. In this Prezi are ten facts every parent should know.
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A recent article details the changes the brain is undergoing in the adolescent years. First of all, the brain doesn't resemble that of an adults until the adolescent reaches his early 20's. The development of "gray matter" continues until that point, which is why scientists are inclined to believe that the brain isn't close to being fully developed until then. Gray matter is made up of millions of neurons, which form the synapses so impulses can be passed through the brain. As the brain matures, the nerve cells become wrapped in a protein, which speeds up the transmission of
impulses. Another interesting bit, the brain responsible for releasing hormones is developing during adolescence, which is why teenage hormones are so unbalanced. In fact, all the parts responsible for emotions are developing. It's slightly upsetting to learn that my own brain is sabotaging me. There are many times when I feel sad for no real reason, and I suppose I have my own developing brain to blame. Research also mentions that the consumption of alcohol is especially dangerous to adolescents. Teens tend to binge drink, while adults drink more frequently in small quantities. This habit can lead to a high chance of addiction later in life.
Images Used (Top to Bottom):
http://thewirehangerbywinnie.com/2015/03/05/ladys-1stbay-area-organization-sends-teen-girls-to-prom/
http://movingtraditions.org/teen-brain-still-construction/