Value Profiles of Business Students in the 1960s and in the 1990s: A Comparison

Abstract

This study identified the changes in personal values of business students from the 1960s to the 1990s, using Allport, Vernon, and Lindzey's Study of Values (1970). It also analyzed the sex-based differences in the value profiles during this period. Results showed that male business students from the 1990s had stronger economic, political, and aesthetic values, but weaker theoretical and religious values than the male students of the 1960s. Female business students of the 1990s had stronger economic and political values and weaker aesthetics and religious values than the female students of the 1960s. Many of the differences noted in the 1960s in the male-female value profiles were no longer evident in the 1990s. Implications of findings for business educators and corporate managers are also discussed.