moral absolutism

the belief that the morality or immorality of an action can be judged according to fixed standards of right and wrong. According to Jean Piaget, moral absolutism is characteristic of young children in the heteronomous stage of moral development, who interpret laws and rules as absolute. See moral realism. Compare moral relativism; situation ethics.

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Psychology term of the day

December 18th 2024

downward communication

the transmission of information from individuals who occupy relatively high-status positions within a group or organization to those who occupy subordinate positions. Such communications tend to be informational and directive, whereas upward communications request information, provide factual information, or express grievances. Communication tends to flow downward in hierarchically organized groups. See channels of communication; communication network.