Abstract

Introduction: Human values are fundamental principles that guide individuals’ attitudes, behaviors, and decision-making in both personal and professional contexts. They reflect what people consider important in life, influencing ethical choices, social interactions, and overall priorities. Aim: This study aims to explore the value preferences of Croatian nurses using Schwartz’s Theory of Basic Human Values, focusing on self-transcendence, openness to change, conservation, and self-enhancement. It will also examine demographic differences in these values and their implications for nursing practice, teamwork, and leadership in healthcare. Methods: This cross-sectional study assessed the values of 520 Croatian nurses using the Portrait Value Questionnaire (PVQ-RR). Results: Participants were primarily female (91.3%) and aged 36 to 45 years (26.2%), with statistical analyses conducted to explore relationships between value preferences and demographic factors, including age, gender, and education level. The results show that selftranscendent values, particularly universalism and benevolence, dominate among nurses in Croatia, reflecting the profession’s emphasis on care and social justice. Younger nurses tend to favor openness to change, while older nurses lean toward tradition and security. These findings offer important insights into the alignment of personal values with professional practice and their potential impact on healthcare policy and leadership. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that Croatian nurses predominantly value selftranscendence, with younger nurses showing a growing preference for openness to change. The findings underscore the need for a value-driven approach to healthcare policy and leadership, particularly as younger generations enter the workforce with a vision for innovation and transformation. Empowering nurses through value-based leadership can ultimately strengthen the healthcare system’s capacity to address the challenges of the future.

Keywords

schwartz theory, croatian nurses, human values, self-transcendence, conservation, openness to change