Similarities and Differences in Values of Polish Young Women and their parents – the Effect of Value Transmission and Value Change

Abstract

AbstractThe similarities and differences in values between generations reflect both the stability and change of socio-cultural trends prevailing at a specific time point as well as developmental processes occurring across the life span. Intergenerational similarities in values may be the effect of value transmission within family or consequence of sharing the same socio-cultural context, since both these processes are difficult to separate. The aims of the study were: 1) to describe similarities and differences in values preferences between young women and their both parents; 2) to determine which values may be transmitted within families. Ninety nine women aged 19-25 and their both parents filled in the Schwartz’ Portrait Value Questionnaire [PVQ- 21, Schwartz 2003]. Comparing to older generation young women showed greater preference for achievement, hedonism, stimulation and universalism as well as less preference for conformity and tradition. To assess value transmission two methods measuring similarity between family members were used. According to correlation analysis values representing conservation (conformity, tradition and security) as well as benevolence and power were transmitted in families between women, while security and two values related to self-enhancement (power and achievement) were transmitted between fathers and daughters. According to comparisons of family dyads with pseudo family dyads only mothers and daughters were found to be similar in their preference for tradition, security and power.