Lawrence Kohlberg’s Suicide: An Analysis of His Final Life Stage

Abstract

Objective: This article focuses on the last stage of Kohlberg’s life, his career success years, between ages of 41 to 59 years. The aim of the study was to explore and describe how an accomplished moral development expert reached the point of taking his own life. The objectives of this article were to illuminate Kohlberg’s life story through (a) formulating a comprehensive and contextualised description of Kohlberg’s last stage of his life and (b) interpreting part of Kohlberg’s life story according to Bronfenbrenner’s Bioecological Theory of Human Development Framework. Method: The psychobiographical analysis used a qualitative paradigm, longitudinal single-case research design from a descriptive-interpretive approach. Bronfenbrenner’s Bioecological Theory of Human Development, incorporating its enmeshed, most recent scientific research design, the Proximal-Person-Context-Time Model was used as the theoretical framework. Results/Findings: The findings illustrate the direct influence of the Context, Person and Time components on Kohlberg’s Proximal processes’ functioning levels and their outcomes. Kohlberg’s Proximal processes were impacted by several areas. These were his interpersonal relationships, career, challenges versus protective factors and visionary qualities. Conclusion: This article underscores the critical importance of suicide awareness and advocates for a comprehensive, holistic approach to addressing mental health challenges. It also stresses the need to investigate intricate and multifaceted factors that can influence suicidal behaviour, along with identifying protective factors that may help prevent suicidal ideation and intent. Understanding the complex factors that contribute to the risk of suicide allows for the effective identification and management of challenges, ultimately supporting greater mental health and well-being.