Abstract
The character of Andrew is used to explore moral reasoning, identity statuses, and the effect of peer pressure on an adolescent development. Andrew’s character was analyzed to see how it is related to the Lawrence Kohlberg’s theory of Moral Reasoning. It was found that he displayed both the preconventional level and the conventional level. However he has not displayed the postconventional level. His character was analyzed to see how it is related to James Marcia theory of identity statuses. His character display identity diffusion, identity foreclosure, identity moratorium, but has not displayed any signs of identity achievement. Finally his character was be analyzed to see how he deals with peer pressure. Andrew appears to give in easily to peer pressure.
Intro
Andrew character is studied and analyzed to find examples and relationships to theories. The theories will be stated. Finally a prediction is made about Andrew’s future moral decisions he might make.
Thesis – The character of Andrew is used to explore moral reasoning, identity statuses, and the effect of peer pressure on an adolescent development.
Topic 1 – Lawrence Kohlberg’s theory of Moral Reasoning
Example 1 – Andrew taped Larry Lester buns as a prank. Andrew tries to please his father. Andrew wants to be like his father. Andrew is seeking his father’s approval but at the same time feels guilty about this act. This is an example of preconventional level because his moral decision to tape Larry Lester’s butt was base on Andrew’s thinking that this is what his father would do at his age.
Example 1a - Andrew is a wrestler because he feels his father wants him to be. He wants to have his father’s win-win attitude. Andrew is physically able to win, but his mind and heart are not into winning. He mainly does this to please his father.
Theory 1 – Preconventional level is moral reasoning that is based on external forces.
Example 2 - Andrew makes