Success Values: Are They Universal or Class-Differentiated?

Abstract

This study utilizes Hyman Rodman's concept "value stretch" in an attempt to help resolve the long-standing controversy over the existence of universal versus class-differentiated success values in American society. Some of the basic assumptions of the "value stretch" concept are drawn out, and a set of six hypotheses is derived. Data on educational, occupational, and income aspirations were obtained from white high school boys in four Massachusetts communities. Results failed to support the value stretch on most points, but instead supported the notion of moderately class-differentiated success values.