Your unit introduction identified three dominant questions researchers and theorists are asking regarding the development of morality in adolescents: Based on the findings in Güroğlu, van den Bos, and Crone (2014), regarding increasing incorporation of social context into moral decision-making behaviors, think about the implications of social interaction and environment for how adolescents develop moral codes of behavior. What are the community, civic, and even global implications of the social isolation of identity groups?
The development of morality in adolescents has long been a topic of interest and research in the field of psychology. Researchers and theorists have sought to understand the factors that shape moral decision-making behaviors in this age group. One perspective that has gained attention is the incorporation of social context into moral decision-making.
A study by Güroğlu, van den Bos, and Crone (2014) delves into this topic by examining the neural and cognitive processes underlying the increased incorporation of social context in moral decision-making behaviors during adolescence. The findings of this study have important implications for understanding how adolescents develop moral codes of behavior.
Adolescents are at a stage in their development where they are transitioning from childhood to adulthood. During this period, they are increasingly exposed to social interactions and experiences that shape their understanding of morality. Güroğlu et al. (2014) argue that the increased sensitivity to social context during adolescence is driven by the changes in brain structure and function that occur during this period.
One implication of the incorporation of social context into moral decision-making is the influence of peers and social groups on adolescents’ moral codes of behavior. Adolescents are highly influenced by their peers and often conform to group norms and expectations. This means that the moral decisions adolescents make may be strongly influenced by the social group or community they belong to.
The community implications of this social influence are significant. If adolescents are surrounded by peers who engage in negative or immoral behaviors, they may be more likely to adopt those behaviors themselves. On the other hand, if adolescents are part of a community that promotes and reinforces moral values, they are more likely to develop positive moral codes of behavior.
Furthermore, the influence of social interaction and environment on moral development extends beyond the local community to the civic and even global level. Adolescents who grow up in communities that value civic engagement and social responsibility are more likely to develop a sense of moral duty towards their community and society at large. This can result in a generation of individuals who actively contribute to the betterment of their communities and engage in acts of social justice.
Conversely, the social isolation of identity groups can have negative consequences for the development of moral codes of behavior. When individuals are marginalized or excluded from mainstream society, they may develop their own moral codes that are counterproductive or even harmful. This can manifest in the form of extremist ideologies or engagement in criminal activities.
At a global level, the implications of social isolation are exemplified by the rise of extremism and terrorism. Adolescents who feel socially excluded may be more susceptible to radicalization and recruitment by extremist groups. This highlights the importance of fostering inclusive communities that provide a sense of belonging and purpose, reducing the likelihood of individuals resorting to extremist ideologies.
In summary, the research by Güroğlu et al. (2014) highlights the importance of social context in shaping moral decision-making behaviors in adolescents. The social interaction and environment that adolescents are exposed to can significantly influence their moral codes of behavior. This has implications at the community, civic, and global levels.
Communities that promote positive moral values and civic engagement can contribute to the development of adolescents with strong moral codes of behavior. Conversely, the social isolation of identity groups can have negative consequences, leading to the adoption of counterproductive or harmful moral codes. Understanding the implications of social interaction and environment for the development of moral codes in adolescents is crucial for creating inclusive and morally responsible societies.
