A need basis for values: Associations between the need for cognitive closure and value priorities

Abstract

Values are viewed as partly based on needs, but little research has been devoted to testing this relationship. The need to attain or avoid cognitive closure may be an important cognitive-motivational factor underlying the endorsement and pursuit of particular values. The present research provided an empirical test of the relations between individual differences in the need for cognitive closure (NFCC) and Schwartz’s ten values. One hundred men and women from a southeastern British university completed measures of NFCC and basic values. Consistent with hypotheses, the results indicated that NFCC was positively associated with valuing security, conformity, and tradition and negatively associated with valuing stimulation and self-direction. In addition, NFCC was unrelated to valuing hedonism, power, universalism, and benevolence, but negatively related to valuing achievement. Consistent with theories of epistemic closure, this research supports the idea that individual differences in NFCC give rise to values which match and satisfy individual needs to attain or avoid cognitive closure.