Age- and Sex-Based Differences in Young Adolescents’ Perceptions of Their Moral Character Development in Latvia

Early adolescence represents a critical period for moral development, in the investigation of which adolescents’ perspectives are underrepresented. This study addresses the question “What are the differences by sex and age groups regarding young adolescents’ perceptions of their moral character development in Latvia?” In 2022, 1462 10–15-year-old pupils from 56 schools completed a questionnaire with 35 rating statements capturing four components of moral development. Age- and sex-based differences were found regarding the role of friendships, family support, moral reasoning, and moral emotions. This study can be useful for providing personalised support to early adolescents’ moral development.