Foundational Value Scale – FVS
A self-report instrument designed to measure wisdom and foundational values across dimensions of harmony, warmth, intelligence, and spirituality.
Scale Development & Technical Details
Scale Overview
The Foundational Value Scale – FVS was developed by Leonard A. Jason, A. Reichler, C. King, D. Madsen, J. Camacho, W. Marchese (2001). It is designed to measure Wisdom and Foundational Values. The scale is intended for use with Adolescents and Adults.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 23 items organized into 3 factors/subscales: Harmony and Warmth, Intelligence, Spirituality.
| Factor / Subscale | Items | N |
|---|---|---|
| Harmony and Warmth | 1,2,3,6,7,8,17,18,19 | 9 |
| Intelligence | 4,5,13,14,16,20,23 | 7 |
| Spirituality | 9,10,11,12,15,21,22 | 7 |
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a custom response format.
Response anchors: 1 = I definitely do not have this characteristic, 2 = I mostly do not have this characteristic, 3 = Undecided / Neutral, 4 = I mostly have this characteristic, 5 = I definitely have this characteristic.
Scoring
Items are scored by subscale, with each subscale sum representing a distinct dimension.
Total scores range from 23 to 115. Interpretation guidelines:
- Low Wisdom / Foundational Values: 23 – 57
- Moderate Wisdom / Foundational Values: 58 – 91
- High Wisdom / Foundational Values: 92 – 115
Psychometric Properties
Internal Consistency: The scale has demonstrated good to excellent internal consistency with reported Cronbach’s alpha values of Not specified.
Administration
The scale is self-administered and typically takes approximately 5 minutes to complete. It can be administered individually or in group settings. No special training is required for administration.