ABSTRACT
This study investigated the relationship of terminal core values to delinquency, substance use, and sexual behavior in a sample of 544 high school students. Students were classified according to their dominant value, and comparisons were made in regard to thirty-one indicators of delinquency, substance use, and sexual activity. As predicted by social control and strain theories, groups valuing fun/enjoyment and security were strongly identified with delinquency and substance use. Groups valuing self-respect, being well-respected, sense of accomplishment, warm relationships with others, and sense of belonging exhibited low frequency of delinquent behavior and substance use. Sense of belonging tended to be related to lower sexual activity, while warm relationships with others and being well-respected were associated with the most sexual activity. Gender differences in problem behaviors were also explored. The implications for theory and intervention are discussed, and values self-confrontation is proposed as a method for reducing problem behaviors.
Subject(s)
Adolescent Behavior/psychology , Juvenile Delinquency/statistics & numerical data , Social Values , Adolescent , Child , Female , Humans , Interpersonal Relations , Male , Sex Factors , Sexual Behavior/psychology , Substance-Related Disorders/psychologyABSTRACT
The present study related terminal core values measured by the List of Values and perceived control with reasons for an exercise program. Data (N = 531) were derived from a national sample of treadmill owners. Principal components analysis confirmed Veroff, Douvan, and Kulka's five categories for the nine values; however, the hierarchy of needs previously postulated in the list was not substantiated. For this sample, self-fulfillment appears to be a type of self-gratification. These social cognitions, i.e., values, and perceived control appear to capture different domains and both are linked to reasons for choice.