According to Kohlberg's model, what do people in the conventional stage conform to?

In Kohlberg's model of moral development, individuals in the conventional stage adhere to the expectations of ethical behavior set by groups or institutions. This stage is characterized by an emphasis on conformity to social norms and maintaining relationships with others. People at this level of moral reasoning seek approval and validation from their peers and society, prioritizing the welfare of the group over their personal beliefs or individual considerations.

This stage typically follows the earlier pre-conventional stage, where decisions are primarily driven by self-interest and the consequences of actions. In the conventional stage, moral reasoning expands to consider broader community values and the importance of maintaining social order. Thus, individuals look to societal rules, expectations, and the viewpoints of others to inform their moral choices, making adherence to group or institutional norms fundamental in guiding their behavior.

In contrast, the other options refer to considerations that reflect earlier or later stages of moral development, with personal beliefs and independent moral reasoning representing more sophisticated personal frameworks that may develop in later stages. Societal laws, while important, do not entirely encompass the nuances of the expectations and values fostered by specific groups or institutions, which is what the conventional stage specifically highlights.