Hierarchial structuring and preference of values in the students of secondary

Abstract

ABSTRACT

This article describes a study of the values and variables that influence hierarchical structuring in secondary school students. The main objectives are to determine which are the preferred values and to compare in what manner gender and age are related to the values of adolescents. The study is conducted with a sample (n=114) of male and female secondary school students, between 14 and 18 years old. The results show that the two variables (gender and age) are related to the subject’s values. Girls prefer final values, more abstract and internalized values; opposite to the instrumental, more egocentric and material values, preferred by boys. Regarding age influence, as they grow older, adolescents prefer values more in accordance to the dignity and equality of people, opposite to values centred on “the self” or in contraposition with others.