Influences

• Most individuals develop their moral code primarily at home, through the influence of their families. Laws and rules set up by governments, schools and similar organizations also help communicate acceptable behavior and encourage the development of good morals.
  
  

Religious Beliefs

• Our religious beliefs significantly affect our moral code. Most religions praise the values of respecting others and treating them with kindness, for example. Because of this, such standards of behavior have become synonymous with possessing good morals.
  
  

Time Frame and Geography

• Standards of behavior may change from one generation to the next or from one culture to another, based on traditions and rules that vary over time or by location. For example, a woman might be considered "immoral" if she wears shorts and sleeveless shirt in some countries today. In many others, this is perfectly acceptable attire.
  
  

Misconceptions

• Morals are not the same as laws or rules. Laws set up by governments or organizations are generally based on what is considered moral, but these rules only regulate behavior. They do not necessarily affect an individual's morals.
  
  

Other Considerations

• Morals refer to someone's inner character, not just their outward behavior. A person with good morals would do the right thing (like being kind to others) whether or not it was required. Someone with bad morals might obey the rules for fear of being caught, but might break the rules if he felt they could get away with it (like cheating on a test, if the teacher is out of the room).