Schwartz Values vs Purpose in Life β What Do These Tests Measure?
Schwartz Value Survey measures 10 universal value priorities, validated in over 80 cultures: achievement, power, hedonism, stimulation, self-direction, universalism, benevolence, tradition, conformity, security. 21 items in the short form. Tells you what matters to you.
Purpose in Life (PIL Test, Crumbaugh & Maholick, 1964) measures whether your life feels meaningful and goal-directed β whether you have a purpose. 20 items. Tells you whether you're living what matters.
Values are the input. Purpose is the output. You can know your values and not live them (daily compromises) or feel purposeful without clear values (you go by intuition). Best sequence: Schwartz first (direction), then PIL (whether you're on that direction).
When to use: Schwartz Basic Human Values Survey (PVQ-21)
- You don't know what truly matters to you
- You feel an internal values conflict
- You're planning major life decisions
When to use: Purpose in Life β PIL Scale (12 items)
- You feel your life lacks meaning
- You do a lot but nothing brings joy
- You're entering a midlife reflection
Not sure? Take both tests!