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Moral Development in Children - Stages and Concepts
Nurturing children to grow up into individuals who honour the good in people and condemn the wrong can be just what the world needs. In order to help your children discern between what’s right and wrong, you will need to begin to lay a strong foundation of morality in their early years. Promoting childhood moral development is the key to bringing up compassionate and emotionally sound human beings.
What is Morality?
Morality is the ability to draw a line between right and wrong. A person’s morality is what guides their actions, thoughts, attitude, and behaviour towards others. It can be based on the environment that the person has grown up in, along with the emotional intelligence and cognitive skills of the person.
What is Moral Development?
Moral development is the comprehension and the evolution of morality in an individual right from infancy to adulthood, and beyond. Many psychologists have tried to analyse the idea of moral development in children by observing changes in their approach and understanding of morality.
Stages of Moral Development in Children
There are 5 major stages of moral development in children.
1. Infancy (0 to 2 years)
At this age, infants do not have the ability moralize. Their idea of right and wrong stems from what feels comfortable and what does not. It is important to understand that in the womb, the baby was never alone, never hungry and was in constant contact with the mother. If this fails to happen in the outside world, the infant perceives this as something 'wrong'. Being fed, held and cuddled is what feels naturally right for the baby.
2. Toddlerhood (2 to 3 years)
Although at this age your toddler may not yet be able to differentiate between right and wrong, he will have learnt the concept of 'others' and will begin to take people into account before taking any action. While he can’t tell why he can’t take his sibling’s toys away or why he can’t hit others, he will learn not to do so because he understands that he will be punished or reprimanded in some form. At this age, your toddler will play by your rules in order to avoid reinforcement.
3. Preschoolers (3 to 7 years)
These are the formative ages of moral development. This is when your child internalizes the values that are taught in the family and that he can see around him. He looks for constant appropriation from his parents and as such will need you to direct him and take charge of the rules. Your child will also understand that being considerate towards others is important as people are affected by actions. He will draw a link between action and reaction, which necessarily means that if he misbehaves, he’ll face some form of reinforcement. Children also tend to have an empathy-based morality that rationalizes that if they hurt somebody that person will feel bad.
4. Pre-teens (7 to 11 years)
This is the age when children begin to understand that adults probably don’t have everything figured out! Although they still obey authority, they are capable of judging the fairness of rules and identify the concept of equality. At this age, they will have a strong idea about what should be done and what needs to be shunned. They will also come to believe that children have opinions that need to be heard too.
5. Adolescents
Teens are largely influenced by peer pressure. However, they do understand that their actions have consequences and may sometimes negatively affect others. Their sense of morality is more abstract and they find it negotiable to suit their needs. Since they are driven by peer pressure they may resort to morally wrong ways to impress their peers. At this age, parents become more like advisors and consultants to them than an authoritative figure.
Freud’s Concept of Moral Development
Freud’s concept of moral development is based on his theory of id, ego and the superego. Through these theories, he proposed that there is a tension between the needs of the individual and the needs of the society at large.
The id is associated with the part of the mind that is self-preserving and is only interested in self-gain. However, the superego stems from the moral centre and is more concerned with what’s right for the society.
Freud believed that a child would have achieved moral development if the child is able to make the transition from the id to the superego keeping in mind societal interests.
Skinner’s Concept of Moral Development
Skinner laid emphasis on the idea that the environment that the child grows up in or is primarily subjected to lays a foundation of the child’s morality. This translates to how the behaviour and the attitude of the parents and caretakers is, and how it shapes the child’s moral standing.
Piaget’s View on Moral Development
Piaget drew parallels between the intellectual development of a child and his moral development. He also said that a child’s morality is best developed through interactions with groups and exposure to decision making. At a very young age, the child’s behaviour is guided by how he will be affected by an action. At this age, rules are very important and are deemed as something that cannot be altered and children are only concerned with the outcome of an action. As the child matures intellectually he begins to realize the need to examine the motive behind an action and not just the consequences. At this age, the child also begins to analyze the fairness of the rules are and will allow negotiation to ensure fairness to all parties involved.
Kohlberg's Theory of Moral Development
Kohlberg was in congruence with Piaget in the belief that cognitive and intellectual development was necessary to progress through the stages of moral development. His six stages (grouped under three levels) of moral development were based on the response of a group of children to a story posing questions and moral dilemmas.
Level 1: Preconventional morality
This applies to children under the age of ten. Here, the children are concerned with avoiding punishment and ensuring that their needs are met. It has two stages.
Stage 1: Obedience and Punishment orientation
Children obey parents or adults in authority for the sole reason of avoiding punishment.
Stage 2: Exchange, Individualism, and Instrumentation
Children, at this stage, begin to believe that the concept of rightness can be subjective and viewed from an individual’s viewpoint. They also base their actions on moral reciprocity and may tend to internalize an eye for an eye judgment method. They also learn to make deals and except payoffs for positive behaviour.
Level 2: Conventional morality
This stage begins at the age of ten and can stretch well into adulthood, with certain adults. It may remain the same throughout their lives. Children gravitate towards acceptable behaviour and the actions of adult role models.
Stage 3: Interpersonal conformity
Children engage in good deeds in order to be viewed as good people within a set social group.
Stage 4: Social System and Law and Order
Rules are followed out of respect for authority and to maintain general order in the society.
Level 3: Post Conventional morality
Only about 10 to 15 percent of the adults achieve this stage where their morality is based on reasoning and principles that they have chosen for themselves. Most people don’t achieve this stage as they take moral values from people around them
Stage 5: Social contract and individual rights
Although rules are made for the benefit of the majority, there can be individual exceptions.
Stage 6: Universal principles and ethics
People in this stage are guided by their individual principles that are applicable universally, like equality and human rights. They conform to rules that abide by these principles and shun the others.
Parents’ Role in Moral Development of Kids
You have an active role in shaping the foundation of morality in your child and can utilize it to help your child grow up to become a considerate human being. Here are a few guidelines on how to promote moral development in children.
1. Set Rules And Utilize Teaching Opportunities
It is essential that your child has a clear demarcation between what can be done and what needs to be avoided. Take time to explain to your child why certain behaviours like lying or hurting someone is wrong. Use this as an opportunity to teach a moral lesson to your child.
2. Be A Good Role Model
Children are very impressionable and mimic adults to the T sometimes. This is why it is important to exercise kindness and compassion in the way you deal with others and your children.
3. Positive Reinforcement
Reward a morally right behaviour with positive reinforcement so that your child knows that he is being appreciated for doing the right thing.
4. Community Participation
Tasks like volunteering can instil a strong sense of community and the idea of giving back in your child. Working side by side with your children as you clean up parks or help out at senior homes can help your child grow into socially and emotionally skilled individual.
Moral development in children is a necessary part of their growth process and can help steer them in the right direction. It is important that you take the opportunity to help your child understand and internalise positive and good values right from the childhood.
Also Read: 25 Animal Stories for Kids with Moral Lessons Read more
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Haemorrhoids (Piles) During Pregnancy: Causes Symptoms and Remedies
Pregnancy comes with its own set of body changes and in certain cases they may not really be pleasant. You feel bloated, experience nausea and perhaps in your third trimester (in some cases earlier too) may also notice blood in your stool. Haemorrhoids or commonly known as piles is a common condition observed in pregnant women.They may cause rectal bleeding and can cause discomfort. Though these are itchy and painful, they can be treated and are easily preventable too. This article will tell you all about haemorrhoids and how to prevent it during pregnancy.
What are Haemorrhoids or Piles?
Haemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower part of the anus or rectum. Their size may vary from as small as a pea to as large as a grape. There are typically two types of haemorrhoids to watch out for during pregnancy: internal haemorrhoids and external haemorrhoids.
External haemorrhoids that develop during pregnancy appear in the opening of the anus. These can be itchy, painful, and can sometimes bleed. These can be felt as lumps and don’t usually require treatment unless a clot develops around them.
On the other hand, Internal haemorrhoids are found inside the anal canal. These are are usually not painful, though may itch and bleed sometimes.
Are Haemorrhoids (Piles) Common In Pregnancy?
Haemorrhoids in pregnancy are common due to various reasons. The growing uterus, constipation and a sudden increase in the progesterone hormone cause haemorrhoids or piles to occur in pregnant women. Sometimes the abnormal growth of varicose veins in the legs and in the vulva also causes haemorrhoids during pregnancy.
If you are wondering how long do pregnancy haemorrhoids last, then there is good news for you. In most of the cases, pregnancy piles disappear soon after child birth, especially if the cause is constipation as it can easily be avoided by the expecting mother.
What Causes Piles During Pregnancy?
The physical changes that accompany pregnancy have a direct bearing on the development of piles. Here is how:
The Growing Uterus: As the uterus starts growing to accommodate your growing bub, it puts pressure on the pelvic veins and the interior vena cava (the vein that receives blood from the lower limb). Due to this pressure, the flow of blood from the lower half of the body slows down. This increases the pressure on the veins below the uterus and makes them swell. Technically speaking, piles are dialated varicose veins that are formed in the rectum when the vein's valves (whose function is to prevent back flow of blood) give away under pressure.
Constipation and Bowel Movement: Constipation is another cause for pregnancy piles. The strain during hard bowel movements due to constipation aggravates haemorrhoids as it puts excessive pressure on the rectum.
Increased Progestrone Secretion: The excess secretion of progesterone hormone relaxes the walls of the veins causing them to swell. The same hormone is responsible for causing constipation in pregnant women.
Prior History of the Condition: Women may get piles for the first time during pregnancy but if they have a history of haemorrhoids or piles in the past, then the chances of developing haemorrhoids in pregnancy are very high. During pregnancy, haemorrhoids are common in either third trimester or the second stage of labour. It has been found that discomfort or bleeding from haemorrhoids is also common during the postpartum period.
Symptoms of Haemorrhoids in Pregnant Women
Some of the common symptoms of haemorrhoids in pregnant women are:
Itching at the anus
Burning of the anus
Painful swellings at the anus
Painful bowel movements
Bleeding and pain with bowel movements
Bleeding with bowel movement has been observed as one of the initial symptoms of piles in pregnant women. However, it is important to note that piles are not always the cause of bleeding of the anus. Hence, a proper diagnosis of the problem is required before starting the treatment for haemorrhoids.
How to Get Rid of Haemorrhoids (Piles) During Pregnancy?
Unlike general perception, it is important to know that haemmorrhoids that occur during pregnancy can be cured. There are home remedies as well as clinical treatment for haemorrhoids available for pregnant women.
Medical Treatment
Treatment of piles during pregnancy also includes the use of suppositories and ointments that contain local anaesthetics, mild astringents, or steroids for temporary relief from pain and irritation. However, the safety of using these products during pregnancy has not been confirmed or documented anywhere. It is therefore extremely important to consult your doctor before using any of these products or medicines.
If the pain persists then some of the following non-surgical treatment for piles during pregnancy may help:
Bipolar coagulation in which special probe is used to stop blood flow to internal haemorrhoids.
Sometimes a knot is tied to stop blood flow to the haemorrhoids. This procedure is called Haemorrhoidal Arterial Ligation.
Rubber Banding is another treatment in which a rubber band is placed over the haemorrhoid to stop blood flow. This makes it wither away fast.
In a procedure called Freezing, liquid nitrogen is used to freeze the tissue so that new tissue is formed.
Surgery may only be required for piles if bleeding is not controlled and that course of action is advised by your doctor.
Home treatment
Interestingly, home remedies for piles during pregnancy are safer and highly recommended. In most cases, piles can be treated by increasing the fibre content of the diet, using stool softeners, by increasing everyday water intake and anti-haemorrhoidal analgesics. Other effective remedies include:
Application of ice pack on the affected area. This helps to reduce the swelling and irritation.
Soaking yourself in a bathtub filled with warm water. This helps relieve the pain and irritation. Take warm bath whenever possible. Soak yourself in the water for 10 to 15 minutes to get rid of the discomfort. It increases blood circulation and provides relief from the condition.
Alternative cold and warm compress is also very effective in treating piles in pregnant women.
Baking soda has properties that can cure almost every skin condition! Apply baking soda in the area to reduce itching.
Maintaining hygiene by cleaning the affected area using soft unscented toilet tissues after every bowel movement.
Apply Witch Hazel ointment/pads to reduce swelling or itching. These herbs have soothing properties that can help with the condition.
How to Prevent Haemorrhoids During Pregnancy
Haemorrhoids, especially during pregnancy, can really be troublesome and annoying. Luckily, they can be avoided by making simple lifestyle changes and taking a few precautionary measures.
Add fibre in your diet: Including fibre rich foods in your diet is very helpful as it helps in easier bowel movements resulting in curing constipation.
Maintain appropriate water intake: Drinking plenty of water is another way to control constipation. When you don't consume enough water, your body tends to absorb some from the colon, leaving the area dry and also causes difficult bowel movements.
Respond when the pressure beckons: Rush to the toilet as soon as you feel a bowel movement. Holding it back puts pressure on the rectal area.
Pay attention to the posture: Don’t sit or stand for too long during pregnancy. Keep moving as it will help in the circulation of blood and thus reduce the chances of getting haemmorrhoids.
Give Kegel exercises a try: Repeat Kegel exercise to increase the circulation of blood in the rectal area that eventually reduces the chance of getting haemorrhoids.
When to See Your Health Care Provider?
If preventive measures and home treatments fail to help and if severe pain or rectal bleeding is experienced, then it is advisable to see a doctor. In case the haemorrhoid are big and bleeding, a specialist will help to shrink them.
Conclusion
Most of the cases of haemorrhoids in pregnant women can be treated by medicine alone. Although a common and mostly minor irritant, haemorrhoids may pose a larger issue if they are not treated on time. While home remedies often provide relief, is important to seek help from your doctor if the problem persists. Read more
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How Animal Sounds Can Help Your 13 Months Old
Parents put in a lot of effort to help their toddler pick up language skills quickly. However, did you know that when a 13-months-old baby learns animal sounds, he takes a step closer to achieving the speech milestone?
You just can't wait for the day when your munchkin starts speaking to you. You put in a lot of efforts to make this happen soon. You talk to him non-stop, sing songs to him, read him stories and what not. But, did you know that teaching your little one animal sounds can be an equally effective exercise to propel him towards the talking milestone?
Ways Animal Sounds Help Toddlers to Talk
1. Fun with animal sounds
Most toddlers are enamoured by the animals that they come across in their daily lives. Whether it's the pet in your house, the animals he sees at the playground, or the ones on television, the antics of animals attract him. The sounds these animals make can be equally enticing for the little one and a good way to introduce him to different sounds. Start off by showing the child the picture of an animal and mimicking the sound of the animal. Once the baby starts loving this, encourage him to try the sounds. Studies have shown that babies who learn animal sounds by mimicking their parents are quick in learning new words as well.
2. Prelude to Reading Abilities
Get a book for your munchkin that contains pictures of a number of animals. Browse these pictures with your little one. Point at a picture and mimic the sound of the animal. For instance, show your toddler the picture of a cow and go "moo". Of course, you might have to repeat this exercise a number of times before your child can associate the sound "moo" with a cow. However, this gives your child an idea about associating sounds with different things that forms the base for reading as well.
3. Better Cognitive Development
When a 13-months-old-baby learns animal sounds, it not only helps the child to improve his language and speaking skills but also encourages better cognitive development. Wondering how? Once your baby has learnt the sounds of different animals and starts mimicking them properly, you can actually play a fun game with him once in a while. You can show the picture of a particular animal and ask him to ape the sound that the animal makes. This is a great exercise for his little brain and improves the memory and recalling power. In case your toddler knows the names of the animals, you can make do without the pictures.
If you know of other ways of teaching animal sounds to toddlers or know of other benefits it can have on the talking abilities of the little ones, do share your thoughts with us! Read more
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Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
3 hours ago
Q. hello everyone, please suggest me, am getting pain in lower abdomen right side, anybody plz tell me why am getting pain pls
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
3 hours ago
A. this needs proper examination to find out problems like appendicitis. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
2 hours ago
Q. hi mam for 2days I am seeing my baby bumb decreasing is it cause of worry?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
2 hours ago
A. I don’t know how the bumps of your child decreasing that’s not fair to me second you have not mentioned the current age of your child to do it and there is no clarity in the query it would be difficult for me to help us so if you don’t mind can you please repost with all the necessary details associated with your question
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
1 hour ago
Q. Hello I had my period missed for April month and today I got my period. Is it normal to have period after 1 month or is there anything I should be worried about? Iam worried please let me know if that's ok or should I consult my doctor
Read moreDr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. consult your doctor for any evaluation required. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. hllo am in 34 week of pregnancy,cramps in my hand and foots,my pulses is very fast,i feel tiredness internally,are these symptoms are normal
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. get investigations particularly hemoglobin level. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. i feel some fever internally also
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. please check the temperature and get the investigations. fever can be because of different reasons most of the times viral bacterial sometimes due to less immunity there can be recurrence better to treat only with paracetamol if the fever more than 100degr
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
17 mins ago
Q. Now I am having pain till then my miscarriage has been done at home
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
13 mins ago
A. I’m sorry I’m unable to understand your query as you haven’t given any detail about it so whatever the situation is you should get a check with your gynaecologist the doctor would be able to give you better help in whatever treatment of precaution you need to require further
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