Constructivist Approach in Social Psychology: Theoretical Analysis and Research Perspectives on Morality

This article examines the main schools of constructivism in psychology: radical constructivism (E. von Glasersfeld, H. Maturana), social constructionism (P. Berger, T. Luckmann), and personal construct theory (G. Kelly). The connection between these approaches and J. Piaget’s genetic epistemology is discussed to resolve contradictions and clarify the fundamental ideas of constructivism essential for moral psychology research. Con-temporary empirical evidence challenging the notion of childhood egocentrism is presented, demonstrating chil-dren’s capacity for complex conceptual reasoning, including moral predispositions. L. Kohlberg’s theory of moral development is analyzed in detail, considering cross-cultural validity and critiques, while emphasizing the role of rational thinking and social practices in shaping moral structures. Future research directions on the cognitive-moral connection are explored.