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The process and motivations of individual values internalization: a qualitative study
Lanting Wu1,2, Youguo Chen3,4, Xiting Huang5,6
1Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
BMC Psychology
|September 27, 2025
Summary
This study explores how individuals internalize values, identifying four distinct stages from initial resistance to full integration. Understanding this subjective process offers new insights into personal value development.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Existing theories on values internalization predominantly adopt an observer's viewpoint.
- There is a need to understand the subjective, individual experience of internalizing values.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the process and characteristics of values internalization from the individual's subjective perspective.
- To expand current theoretical frameworks by incorporating lived experiences.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative research design utilizing semi-structured interviews.
- Thematic analysis was applied to data from 20 participants.
Main Results:
- Identified four stages of values internalization: ignoring-resisting, understanding, attempting to practice, and integration.
- Each stage demonstrates unique cognitive, behavioral, motivational, emotional, and self-relevance characteristics.
- Internal factors (outcomes, consequences) and external factors (life events, peer behavior) significantly influence the process.
Conclusions:
- This research provides a novel perspective on values internalization by focusing on the individual's journey.
- Findings supplement existing observer-centric theories, offering a more holistic understanding.
- Establishes a foundation for developing more comprehensive measures of values internalization.
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