What defines personal values?

The definition of personal values centers on subjective convictions about what is considered right and wrong, which are heavily influenced by individual experiences, upbringing, society, and cultural context. Personal values are shaped by an array of factors, including family beliefs, educational experiences, religious teachings, and social interactions, which culminate in a personal moral framework that guides an individual's behavior and decision-making.

Personal values differ from cultural norms, which can be more collective and generally recognized by a group rather than unique to an individual. They also differ from legal requirements, which are formal stipulations enforced by law, and from universal beliefs, which suggest a consensus that may not exist in the diverse landscape of individual perspectives. The focus on subjective convictions emphasizes the personal nature of values, illustrating how they are internally developed rather than externally imposed or universally acknowledged. This understanding is crucial for professionals, such as correctional and probation officers, as they navigate ethical dilemmas and interactions with individuals from varied backgrounds.