Values and role models of high school and college students in the People's Republic of China

This study took a snapshot in time of the values espoused by Chinese students at selected high schools and universities in the People's Republic of China and their descriptions of the role models who influenced their value formation. The study also assessed value similarities and differences based on school, age, sex, academic major, religion, and ethnic background.;The sample was composed of 719 students aged 13 to 42 from 4 universities and 2 private high schools in the Beijing area. The students were administered a questionnaire composed of the Rokeach Value Survey (RVS), the Chinese Value Survey (CVS) (Chinese Cultural Connection, 1987), and a specially created Role Model Survey. A complete Chinese translation of the Rokeach Value Survey was not available. Therefore, a native Chinese speaker from Beijing translated the original English version of the Rokeach Value Survey into Mandarin Chinese. Accuracy of the translation was confirmed by the back translation. Official permission was obtained from the publisher for the new Chinese translation of the Rokeach Value Survey. Students were asked to rank values and rate them on a 9-point Likert scale. The factor analysis yielded 4 factors each for the RVS and CVS.;Students' values selection emphasized achievement and relationships. The low rating of Loyalty to Superiors and the high rating of Filial Piety diverge from traditional Chinese values. Historically, both would have received equally high ratings.;Students selected role models who hold traditional positions of authority. The lack of movie stars and athletes in students' selections indicates less focus on physical beauty and athletic ability and more on intellect and achievement. Parents are still most often identified as students' role models. The students in this study have a healthy mixture of values that have the potential of helping China remain a strong nation and become the leading economic power throughout Asia in the 21st Century.