Beliefs, Attitudes and Values

Question 1

Define belief?

Answer 1

a persons sense of right or wrong

Question 2

What are the two ways beliefs are generated?

Answer 2

1. self generated
2. externally generated

Question 3

What is one way a self generated belief is created?

Answer 3

Experience: People developing beliefs due to experiences. This belief has been proven to the individual in a practical way, usually formed in a cause and effect manner. E.g. an individual drinks and gets drunk→notices effects. This belief is unlikely to be changed

Question 4

What is another way a self generated belief is created?

Answer 4

Reflection: World around individual. Beliefs may be more abstract, created by thoughts E.g. an individual wondering how much alcohol it would take to become drunk. This belief may be based on observations, personal opinion and viewpoints of others. This belief prevents negative experiences from happening to that person

Question 5

What is one way an externally generated belief is created?

Answer 5

Experts: information from qualified people and examining their opinions and beliefs. People will believe information as the source is respected and trusted.

Question 6

What is another way an externally generated belief is created?

Answer 6

Authority: Position of high leadership or power. This person may not have evidence or be an expert but individuals will still believe them. E.g. young children with parents.

Question 7

Define values

Answer 7

Generals principles by which one lives their life. Moral standards which help people make decisions. Some are more valued than others.

Can be dependant on culture, demographics, age, gender, situation.

Question 8

Define attitudes

Answer 8

A positive or negative opinion or feeling about objects, people or ideas

Question 9

What are the 3 ways attitudes are formed?

Answer 9

Cognitive: through thoughts and beliefs people hold

Affective: emotional feelings

Behavioural: predisposition to act in certain ways (you’ve been told to act a certain way)