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In Kohlberg's theory of moral development, individuals in the conventional stage focus primarily on societal rules and expectations. This stage is characterized by an understanding of the importance of maintaining social order and the approval of others. People at this level of moral reasoning tend to uphold laws and conventions because they see them as essential for the functioning of society. They believe that laws should be obeyed to maintain social harmony and that individuals have a duty to follow societal rules.

This stage emerges typically during adolescence and continues into adulthood, illustrating a clear shift from self-centered viewpoints to a more community-oriented perspective. In contrast to the preconventional stage, where morality is based on personal interest and avoidance of punishment, or the post-conventional stage, where moral reasoning transcends societal norms in favor of universal ethical principles, the conventional stage represents a commitment to the expectations and norms of one's society.