International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume VI, Issue VIII, August 2022 | ISSN 2454–6186
Wambua Pius Muasa (PhD)
Institute of Youth Studies, School of Arts and Social Sciences
Tangaza University College, Catholic University of Eastern Africa, Kenya
Abstract: The objective this study was to investigate the relationship between Kohlberg six stages of moral reasoning and attitude towards the same gender relationships among University students in Nairobi County, Kenya. The study employed a correlational research design using a simple random sampling technique. The study adopted a sample size of 294 number of participants. The data was collected using Moral Judgment Test (MJT) and Attitude towards Homosexuality Scale. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis. Result showed out that instrumental attitude towards homosexuality is positively and significantly influenced by instrumental relativism moral reasoning (β=0.514, p<.05). This type of moral reasoning also impacted positive attitudes towards lesbians (β=0.301, p<.05). Engaging law and order reasoning impacts significantly negative attitudes towards homosexuality (β=-0.253, p<.05). The study concluded that there was insignificant relationship between the Kohlberg six stages of moral reasoning and attitude towards the same gender relationships. The study recommends more studies with different populations on the relationship between Kohlberg six stages of moral reasoning and attitude towards the same gender relationships.
I. INTRODUCTION
The researchers have been interested in scientific study of morality and this have contributed in understanding the origin of morality and what informs people in making moral judgement (Graham et al. 2016). Also, researchers have made an attempt to understand how morality is influenced by socialization and cultural groups (Graham et al. 2016; Knobe et al. 2012; Tomasello 2016; Tomasello & Vaish 2013). For instance, in Africa, homosexuality is one of the current behaviours that is considered “morally wrong” and against the African culture (Sollar & Somda, 2011). Therefore, the culture has influence on moral judgement to people with homosexual orientation. Studies have shown that institutional setting plays a big role in morality because it is where beliefs, values and attitudes are developed. It is through institutional settings that people are likely to experience injustices or inequalities (Morris, 2016; Tyler, 2013). The LGBT persons are likely to experience discrimination, violence in the institutional setting and especially when they are looking for employment.