According to Kohlberg's theory, which stage of moral development is based on rewards and punishments?

In Kohlberg's theory of moral development, the stage that focuses on rewards and punishments is indeed Preconventional morality. This stage is primarily characterized by a child’s understanding of morality based on the direct consequences of actions. Individuals at this level often make decisions to avoid punishment or to gain rewards, viewing moral behavior in terms of immediate physical consequences or tangible rewards.

For instance, a child might choose to share a toy not out of an understanding of the value of sharing but because they want to receive praise or avoid getting in trouble. This reflects a simplistic viewpoint of morality that is closely tied to personal consequences, rather than societal rules or abstract principles.

The other stages of moral development are structured around more complex reasoning. Conventional morality is based on social rules and the approval of others, while Postconventional morality involves an understanding of universal ethical principles that transcend societal norms. Societal morality isn't specifically defined in Kohlberg's stages, making Preconventional the most suitable answer regarding the understanding of morality through the lens of rewards and punishments.