The Schwartz Value Survey (SVS) is a psychological assessment tool that measures an individual's personal values and how they relate to their beliefs and behaviors. Developed by Shalom H. Schwartz, a social psychologist at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, the SVS is a widely used tool in both academic and professional settings to understand an individual's values and how they influence their decision-making and behavior.
The SVS is based on the idea that values are central to human motivation and behavior. According to Schwartz, values are abstract goals that individuals strive for, and they guide our choices and actions in life. Some values are personal, such as happiness, security, and self-fulfillment, while others are more universal, such as social justice and equality.
The SVS measures ten broad value types, including self-direction, achievement, power, security, conformity, tradition, benevolence, universalism, hedonism, and stimulation. These values are grouped into two categories: self-transcendence values, which relate to the welfare of others and the larger community, and self-enhancement values, which focus on personal success and advancement.
To complete the SVS, individuals are asked to rate the importance of a series of statements that reflect each of the ten value types. The survey takes about 20-30 minutes to complete, and results are typically presented as a profile of an individual's values, ranking them in order of importance.
There are several benefits to using the SVS. First, it helps individuals understand their own values and how they influence their behavior. This self-awareness can be useful in personal and professional settings, as it allows individuals to make more informed decisions and align their actions with their values. Additionally, the SVS can be used to compare an individual's values with those of others, helping to identify common ground and areas of potential conflict.
The SVS has also been used in research to study the relationship between values and various outcomes, such as job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and leadership styles. For example, research has shown that individuals with strong self-transcendence values tend to be more empathetic and supportive of others, while those with strong self-enhancement values may be more competitive and focused on their own success.
In conclusion, the Schwartz Value Survey is a valuable tool for understanding an individual's personal values and how they influence their behavior. Whether used for personal or professional purposes, the SVS can help individuals make more informed decisions and align their actions with their values.