Personal Values and Identity

Start with a definition

Begin with the mind map What Is a Value? It introduces the idea that a value must be freely chosen. Consider the example it gives about not cheating because of an authority, and use it to think about the difference between following a rule and choosing a value.

Next, open Important Values in My Life. It includes tolerance, equality, solidarity and dialogue, with space devoted to definitions and reflection. You can compare these examples with the idea of choice in the first map.

Explore values and self-awareness

Other maps offer different ways to organize values. One lists respect, tolerance, discipline and truth. Another pairs values in English and Spanish. Look for values that appear in more than one map and note any differences in how they are presented.

For a focus on the self, the map on self-awareness, self-esteem and self-development includes interests, strengths, weaknesses, beliefs and goals. Identity and Self-esteem offers another starting point. You can also explore Basic Human Aspirations and their Fulfilment, which includes personal happiness, relationships and social responsibility.

Use the quiz with the maps

The page's quiz includes a fill-in question about personal details. Try it alongside the self-awareness map, then consider how details about a person differ from their interests, beliefs and values. Return to the values maps to compare the examples they give.

The flashcards and flowchart offer other formats to explore. Teachers can use the maps as starting points for discussion, while students can make a short list of questions to bring back to the resources.

See the unit connection

Personal Values and Identity is a section of Values and Moral Development in Ethics, citizenship and civics. Use the resources here to explore values and identity within that unit, then choose another format on this page to continue studying.