Abstract

Aim: This study aims to specify intergenerational individual and occupational values of nursing students and nurses.

Methods: The population of this descriptive study consisted of 253 participants including 124 nursing students and 129 nurses. Data was collected by Information Form, Schwartz Value Inventory and Nursing Professional Values Scale.

Results: Of participants, 3.1% are generation X (1965-1980), 10.7% are from first half of Y generation (1981-1989), 86.2% are from second half of Y generation (1990-1999). Among participants 79.8% are female, 88.5% are single, 75.1% aren’t a member of any association. No statistically significant difference was found between generations regarding Nursing Professional Values Scale (p>0.05). However, statistically significant differences was found when sub-dimensions of Nursing Professional Values Scale (NPVS) and Schwartz Value Inventory (SVI) are compared to marital status and membership to association (p<0.05). When sub-dimensions of NPVS and SVI are compared, a high level of positive correlation was established(p<0.05).

Conclusion: Professional and individual values of nurses and students are effected by their marital status and membership to association. There is also a significant relationship between individual and professional values of nurses and students.