Values & Attitudes

What is a value?
A value is something we hold as important,
good, desirable, or worthwhile. They are
the basic and fundamental beliefs that
guide or motivate our attitudes or actions.

Values are usually stated as a word or short

phrase and are usually positive. Values can
distinguish individuals but they can also be
shared by a group (cultural, social,
political, historical etc.). Dominant values
are the views and beliefs that are widely
shared among the majority of a society or
group.

What is an attitude?
An attitude is a way of thinking or feeling
towards something. It might be a stance
regarding a situation, idea, character,
event, or issue.

It is usually stated as a sentence that

describes a feeling towards a particular
thing. Our attitudes are shaped by our
values. Attitudes can be expressed by
what we say, what we do and what we
wear.

Values and attitudes are interrelated.

Even though values and attitudes are
separate concepts, they are frequently
discussed together because they share a
close relationship.

Values underpin or shape our attitudes,

providing the foundation upon which
attitudes are formed.

E.g. A dedicated attitude towards

academic study reflects the value of
education and a supportive attitude
towards integrating refugees into society
reflects the values of compassion and
humanity.

They can be challenged or reinforced.

Values and attitudes might be
CHALLENGED or REINFORCED by a text.

E.g. A women's magazine article that

focuses on the issue of mothers who quit
full time work in favour of part-time work
might reinforce the value of family and
challenge the value of money. The text
might reinforce a supportive attitude
towards parents who put their family
before their jobs.