Value Components of Life Strategies in Graduates of Vocational Postsecondary Institutions

Abstract

The research featured value components of life strategies exhibited by graduates of secondary vocational education institutions. The research methods involved M. O. Mdivani and P. B. Kodess’s method of life strategies, M. Rokeach’s method of value orientations, R. Inglehart’s method modified by M. S. Yanitskiy, C. Rogers and R. Dymond’s method of social and psychological adaptation diagnostics, etc. The authors analyzed the hierarchy of values in graduates with different levels of social and psychological adaptation. The graduates were divided into groups on the basis of C. Rogers and R. Dymond’s methodology adapted by A. K. Osnitsky. The test revealed common and variable values in the structure of the graduates’ life strategies. Respondents with a high level of adaptation were purposeful and ready to take responsibility for important decisions; their scenario of the future was optimistic; socializing value type predominated; the value component included specific life values and values of professional self-actualization. Graduates with a medium level of socio-psychological adaptation adhered to conformist values; their dominant value types were socializing and adapting; they had a high level of anxiety and uncertainty about the future while showing no willingness to overcome difficulties and achieve their life goals. The values of professional self-actualization had an advantage in the long-term perspective. The authors included that graduates with low and medium adaptation levels need psychological and pedagogical support when they enter independent life.

Keywords

• image of the future
• life goals
• values
• value types
• professional self-actualization
• young age