Skitka, L. J., et al. (2020).
Annual Review of Psychology, 72(1),
347–366.
Abstract
This review covers theory and research on the psychological characteristics and consequences of attitudes that are experienced as moral convictions, that is, attitudes that people perceive as grounded in a fundamental distinction between right and wrong. Morally convicted attitudes represent something psychologically distinct from other constructs (e.g., strong but nonmoral attitudes or religious beliefs), are perceived as universally and objectively true, and are comparatively immune to authority or peer influence. Variance in moral conviction also predicts important social and political consequences. Stronger moral conviction about a given attitude object, for example, is associated with greater intolerance of attitude dissimilarity, resistance to procedural solutions for conflict about that issue, and increased political engagement and volunteerism in that attitude domain. Finally, we review recent research that explores the processes that lead to attitude moralization; we integrate these efforts and conclude with a new domain theory of attitude moralization.
Here are some thoughts:
The article provides valuable insights into how individuals perceive and process attitudes grounded in fundamental beliefs about right and wrong. It distinguishes morally convicted attitudes from other constructs, such as strong but nonmoral attitudes or religious beliefs, by highlighting that moral convictions are viewed as universally and objectively true and are relatively resistant to authority or peer influence. These convictions often lead to significant social and political consequences, including intolerance of differing views, resistance to compromise, increased political engagement, and heightened emotional responses. The article also explores the processes of attitude moralization—how an issue becomes infused with moral significance—and demoralization, offering a domain theory of attitude moralization that suggests different pathways depending on whether the initial attitude is perceived as a preference, convention, or existing moral imperative.
This knowledge is critically important to practicing psychologists because it enhances their understanding of how moral convictions shape behavior, decision-making, and interpersonal dynamics. For instance, therapists working with clients on issues involving conflict resolution, values clarification, or behavioral change must consider the role of moral conviction in shaping resistance to persuasion or difficulty in compromising. Understanding moral conviction can also aid psychologists in navigating cultural differences, addressing polarization in group settings, and promoting tolerance by recognizing how individuals intuitively perceive certain issues as moral. Furthermore, as society grapples with increasingly divisive sociopolitical challenges—such as climate change, immigration, and public health crises—psychologists can use these insights to foster dialogue, reduce moral entrenchment, and encourage constructive engagement. Ultimately, integrating the psychology of moral conviction into practice allows for more nuanced, empathetic, and effective interventions across clinical, organizational, and community contexts.
