The Mediating Role of Moral Reasoning on the Relationship between Self-Concept and Moral Metacognition with Moral Behavior

The emphasis on ethical values, especially the protection of moral behavior, has increased dramatically in the recent years. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between self-concept, moral metacognition and moral behavior with the mediating role of moral reasoning students from high schools in shiraz. For this purpose, 300 students were randomly selected by using multi-stage cluster sampling method and filled out questionnaires of self-concept (Rogerz, 1975), questionnaires of metacognitive knowledge (Swanson and Hill,1993), and moral development scale (Manavipour). Data were evaluated by multiple regression analysis with synchronized method based on baron and Kenny(1989). Results demonstrated that self -concept (β=0/42, P<001), and moral metacognition had positively direct effect(β= 0/18, P<001) on moral reasoning. Also, self-concept and moral metacognition have an indirect effect on moral behavior through mediating role of moral reasoning. Moral reasoning positively predicts moral behavior. Therefore, it can be concluded that the moral reasoning has a mediating role in the relationship between self-concept and moral metacognition with moral behavior.