An individual at the instrumental stage of moral development becomes aware that others also have needs and begins to defer to them to get what the individual wants.

Instrumental Stage

A developmental phase where an individual learns to engage in activities or behaviors for the sake of achieving a goal or obtaining a reward.

Moral Development

The process by which individuals learn to differentiate right from wrong, acquire virtues, and make ethical decisions as they grow and mature.

Defer

To postpone or delay an action or decision to a later time.