Self-Concepts and Values Among Hispanic and Mainstream Navy Recruits

摘要

A review of the published literature suggested six hypotheses concerning similarities and differences among Hispanic and Mainstream self-concepts and values. It was expected that Hispanics would be higher than the Mainstream in values linked to subjugation to nature, being, present orientation, lineality, collectivism, individuality, and uncertainty avoidance. Furthermore, they were expected to have a self-concept concerning their ability and a level of educational aspiration that is lower than the levels found among Mainstream individuals. Samples of 80 Hispanic and 80 Mainstream Navy recruits responded to a 62-item self concept and a 90-item ideal self (values) questionnaire. None of the hypotheses were supported. Discussion explores why the hypotheses generated by the review of the literature were not supported. It was argued that the findings in the literature may not be dependable, but also that the Navy sample is atypical. The Navy is apparently recruiting those Hispanics who have values that are most similar to the values of the Mainstream. In spite of the overwhelming similarity between the Hispanic and Mainstream Navy samples there were some subtle differences. The Mainstream emphasized individualistic values--honest, conservative, moderate--while the Hispanics emphasized interpersonal values--sensitive, simpatico, loyal, respected, dutiful, gracious, and conforming. (Author)