Values of entering nursing students: changes over 10 years

Values of students entering nursing in 1982 were compared with values of those entering in 1972. The Allport-Vernon-Lindzey Study of Values and an Entering Resources inventory were completed by 309 students in 1972 and 161 students in 1982. The 1982 sample scored higher on economic values (p less than .01), but did not differ on the other values. Both groups scored highest on social values with religious values ranking second in 1982 and third in 1972. These findings contrast to studies in the 1960's which found religious values rated highest and economic values rated lowest.