Measuring the Four Higher-Order Values in Schwartz's Theory: Validation of a 17-Item Inventory

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Social Sciences

Background:

• Schwartz's theory of basic human values is a leading framework.
• Values can be analyzed at basic and higher-order levels.
• Higher-order dimensions include Openness to Change, Conservation, Self-Transcendence, and Self-Enhancement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the psychometric properties of the Higher-Order-Value Scale-17 (HOVS17).
• To assess HOVS17's reliability and validity for measuring higher-order values.
• To evaluate HOVS17's suitability for large-scale, longitudinal studies.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of data from the GESIS Panel, a large-scale probability-based study.
• Psychometric evaluation including multi-dimensional scaling (MDS).
• Assessment of unidimensionality, model fit, reliability, and test-retest stability.

Main Results:

• HOVS17 demonstrated satisfactory psychometric properties.
• The 17 items were located in the MDS space as hypothesized.
• Subscales showed unidimensionality, good model fit, acceptable reliability (e.g., test-retest .65–.69), and theoretically plausible correlations with correlates like personality and well-being.

Conclusions:

• HOVS17 is a psychometrically sound inventory for assessing higher-order values.
• The scale provides a reliable basis for studying value development, precursors, and consequences in panel studies.
• HOVS17 is recommended for future surveys and potential improvements are discussed.