Values are fundamental beliefs that guide individuals’ behavior and decision-making. Milton Rokeach, a renowned social psychologist, developed the Rokeach Value Survey (RVS) to classify and measure human values. This article explores the distinction between terminal and instrumental values as proposed by Rokeach, drawing upon insights from scholarly journals and reputable websites.
Key Facts
- Terminal values are the highest values in a person’s value system and represent end-states toward which one strives.
- They are the goals and objectives that individuals aim to achieve during their lifetime.
- Terminal values are often considered the ultimate destinations or desired outcomes of a person’s life.
- Examples of terminal values include world peace, family security, freedom, equality, self-respect, happiness, wisdom, and social recognition.
Instrumental Values:
- Instrumental values are modes of behavior or means used to achieve the terminal values.
- They guide the selection of actions and behaviors that individuals employ to attain their desired end-states.
- Instrumental values are often used in day-to-day life and can vary among individuals and groups.
- Examples of instrumental values include being cheerful, loving, honest, self-controlled, capable, ambitious, polite, imaginative, independent, intellectual, broad-minded, logical, courageous, obedient, helpful, responsible, clean, and forgiving.
Key Differences:
- Terminal values are the ultimate goals and objectives, while instrumental values are the means or behaviors used to achieve those goals.
- Terminal values represent the end-states of existence, while instrumental values represent the modes of behavior employed to reach those end-states.
- Terminal values are the highest values in a person’s value system, whereas instrumental values are the ones that are often used.
Terminal Values
Terminal values represent the ultimate goals and objectives that individuals strive to achieve during their lifetime. They encompass the desired end-states towards which people direct their efforts and aspirations. These values are considered the highest priorities in a person’s value system and serve as guiding principles for their life choices.
Examples of Terminal Values
- World peace
- Family security
- Freedom
- Equality
- Self-respect
- Happiness
- Wisdom
- Social recognition
Instrumental Values
Instrumental values, in contrast to terminal values, represent the means or behaviors that individuals employ to achieve their terminal values. They guide the selection of actions and strategies that people use to attain their desired end-states. These values are often used in day-to-day decision-making and can vary among individuals and groups.
Examples of Instrumental Values
- Cheerfulness
- Love
- Honesty
- Self-control
- Capability
- Ambition
- Politeness
- Imagination
- Independence
Key Differences between Terminal and Instrumental Values
- Goals vs. Means: Terminal values represent the ultimate goals and objectives, while instrumental values represent the means or behaviors used to achieve those goals.
- End-States vs. Modes of Behavior: Terminal values represent the end-states of existence, while instrumental values represent the modes of behavior employed to reach those end-states.
- Highest Priorities vs. Frequently Used: Terminal values are the highest values in a person’s value system, whereas instrumental values are the ones that are often used.
Conclusion
Terminal and instrumental values play crucial roles in shaping individuals’ behavior and decision-making. Terminal values provide the overarching goals and aspirations that guide people’s lives, while instrumental values offer the practical means to achieve those goals. Understanding the distinction between these two types of values can provide valuable insights into human motivation and behavior.
FAQs
What are terminal values?
Terminal values are the ultimate goals and objectives that individuals strive to achieve during their lifetime. They represent the desired end-states towards which people direct their efforts and aspirations.
What are instrumental values?
Instrumental values are the means or behaviors that individuals employ to achieve their terminal values. They guide the selection of actions and strategies that people use to attain their desired end-states.
What is the key difference between terminal and instrumental values?
The key difference lies in their nature and function. Terminal values represent the ultimate goals, while instrumental values represent the means to achieve those goals.
Why are terminal and instrumental values important?
Understanding these values is crucial because they shape individuals’ behavior, decision-making, and life choices. They provide a framework for people to prioritize their actions and allocate their resources.
Can terminal and instrumental values change over time?
Yes, both types of values can change over an individual’s lifetime. Life experiences, cultural influences, and personal growth can lead to shifts in values and priorities.
How do terminal and instrumental values influence behavior?
Terminal values guide individuals’ long-term goals and aspirations, while instrumental values influence their day-to-day actions and behaviors. Together, they provide a framework for making choices and pursuing a meaningful life.
Are terminal and instrumental values universal?
While some values may be shared across cultures, terminal and instrumental values can vary significantly among individuals, groups, and societies. Cultural norms, social expectations, and personal experiences shape these values.
How can individuals align their actions with their values?
To align actions with values, individuals should reflect on their terminal and instrumental values, assess their current behaviors, and make conscious choices that are consistent with their priorities. This alignment leads to greater satisfaction and purpose in life.