What is the Difference Between Values and Attitudes?

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The main difference between values and attitudes lies in their definition, nature, and influence on a person's behavior. Here are the key differences between the two:

  • Definition: Values are moral principles or standards of behavior, while attitudes are opinions or stances about a certain subject matter or person.
  • Nature: Values are abstract and trans-situational, whereas attitudes are specific judgments towards an object. Values are more or less permanent in nature, while attitudes can change with favorable experiences.
  • Influence: Attitudes are influenced and built upon one's values. Values are the codified principles towards which behaviors are aligned and actions are directed. Attitudes represent a single belief that guides actions and judgment across objects and situations, while values represent what we think is right, wrong, good, or unjust.
  • Relation to Character and Personality: Values are a part of a person's character, while attitudes are a part of a person's personality.

In summary, values are the moral principles that guide a person's behavior, while attitudes are the opinions or stances that a person holds about a specific subject matter or person. Values are more permanent and have a more significant influence on a person's overall behavior, while attitudes are more changeable and specific to certain situations.

Comparative Table: Values vs Attitudes

Values and attitudes are both important aspects of a person's character and personality, but they have distinct differences. Here's a table that highlights the differences between values and attitudes:

Values Attitudes
Moral principles or standards of behavior Opinions or stances about a subject matter or a person
Part of a person's character Part of a person's personality
Reflect a person's moral ethics and overall character Can be either positive or negative, depending on the person's values
Influenced by family, friends, culture, religion, and social interactions Built up in accordance with one's values
Standards and qualities held dear Behavioral component and similar to beliefs

In summary, values are moral principles that guide a person's behavior, while attitudes are opinions or stances related to specific subject matters or people. Values are a part of a person's character, whereas attitudes are a part of a person's personality. Values showcase a person's moral ethics and overall character, whereas attitudes can be either positive or negative, depending on the person's values.