Similarity in self-enhancement and self-transcendence values between young adults and their parents and friends

Abstract

This study investigates similarities between the ‘self-enhancement’ and ‘self-transcendence’ values of young adults and the corresponding values of their parents and friends, examining both mean level and correlational similarities. Participants included 193 Italian young adults along with their parents and friends (one male and one female) who each reported on their own self-enhancement and self-transcendence values. Results showed that young adults were more similar to their friends than to their parents on mean levels of values. Females reported valuing self-transcendence more and self-enhancement less than males. Considering correlational similarity, male young adults' self-transcendence values were similar to their parents' values, whereas their self-enhancement values were similar to those of friends and parents. Female young adults' self-enhancement values were similar to their parents' values; no similarity to friends was found. Findings suggest the importance of considering gender differences when studying the links between young adults' value orientations and those of parents and friends.