Toward a Theory of Moral Identity Development

There has been growing interest in moral identity development among moral psychologists. However, identity theorists have had little to say on this issue. In this chapter, I will attempt to bring identity theorists into the discussion by conceptualizing moral identity development in identity theory terms. I outline three phases of moral identity development that emerge within the literature. First is the pre-formative phase, which exists prior to the formation of the moral identity. Second is the formative phase, which occurs as the moral identity takes on moral meanings learned through socialization. Third is the transformative phase, which takes place as the moral identity works to control perceptions to ensure verification. As I argue, an identity theory approach to moral identity development has much to add to the current literature on the topic.