Better Together: Effects of Seeing Values as Shared on Minority Students’ Wellness and Motivation

• In Event: Poster Session 3
  In Poster Session: Motivation in Education SIG Poster Session 2

Abstract

Values are an important part of identity and source of motivation for people (Rokeach, 1971). Past research has shown that writing about values can improve academic and wellness outcomes for individuals experiencing identity threat (Cohen et al., 2009; Logel & Cohen, 2012). Building on these findings, the present study explores correlational and experimental evidence on the effect of minority undergraduates feeling like they are in an environment where their values are shared. In a correlational study, this sense of shared values correlated positively with wellbeing, life satisfaction, and sense of belonging. In an experimental study, a “shared values affirmation” fostered a greater sense of belonging than a standard values affirmation condition. Follow-up data collection and analyses are ongoing.

Authors

• Shannon Brady, Stanford University

• Amani Green, Stanford University

• Geoffrey L. Cohen, Stanford University