What level of moral development focuses on avoiding punishment?

The level of moral development that focuses on avoiding punishment is indeed categorized as preconventional. This stage is characterized by an individual's understanding of morality primarily through a lens of obedience and self-interest. At the preconventional level, actions are judged right or wrong based on their direct consequences, particularly avoidance of punishment.

In this stage, individuals are motivated by the anticipation of positive outcomes or the fear of negative repercussions, emphasizing a more egocentric viewpoint rather than adhering to societal rules or ethical principles. Consequently, decisions are made to stay out of trouble rather than to fulfill duties toward others or adhere to established societal norms.

This understanding of morality is foundational as individuals develop their ethical reasoning, moving later into the conventional and postconventional levels where societal rules and abstract principles begin to play a more significant role in moral decision-making.