Concept: Pre-conventional morality is the first level of Kohlberg's theory of moral development, where rules are viewed as external to the self.
Explanation: At the pre-conventional level, a person primarily focuses on avoiding punishment and gaining rewards.
Rules and values are not internalized; they come from outside authority.
An action is judged by its direct consequences, not by deeper moral principles.
Children at this stage obey because they fear punishment or expect a favour.
They do not yet understand social contracts or universal ethical principles.
Therefore, in pre-conventional morality, rules remain external to the self rather than being part of one's own value system.
Answer: Option D — rules are external to the self.