Schwartz’s theory of human values: Balancing homogeneity of reflective items and theoretical coverage

Abstract

Schwartz’s theory of human values, as operationalized using different instruments such as the Portrait Values Questionnaire and the European Social Survey, was confirmed by multiple studies using Smallest Space Analysis (SSA). However, initial tests based on Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) pointed to low discriminant validity of the 10 basic values. Our hypothesis is that this is not an intrinsic characteristic of the values studied, but rather the result of the selection strategy of items that maximizes theoretical coverage but pays less attention to the homogeneity of items. This hypothesis is confirmed for the Portrait Values Questionnaire in multiple tests with data from two samples. Consequently, we propose an alternative structure that consists of 15 more specific values: Tradition, Humility, Self-restraint, Normfollowing, Societal security, Power, Achieving goals, Achieving recognition, Hedonism, Autonomy of action, Autonomy of thought, Stimulation, Social equality, Preservation of nature, and Benevolence. The proposal respects the conceptual complexity of the values theory and the circular structure that orders the values, but avoids contamination of composite scores and increases their predictive power. Implications for further development of the scale are drawn.