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How Do Social Values Help in Keeping a Positive Attitude in Life?

Social values or societal norms play an important role in determining how a person perceives the world and what belief system is adopted. The collective beliefs of a society can greatly influence how a person responds and interacts with the world and herself. Parenting and the views of parents also help determine the attitudes the child will adopt and likely have throughout her life.

  1. Social-Political-Economic Values

    • The political and economic values in a country greatly determine the attitudes of the people. For example, According to Napoleon Hill, freedom is ranked as the most desired aspect in life. Freedom to think, speak, believe, live and work as one chooses. Countries with oppressive governments that limit personal freedoms will hinder the populations' ability to have a positive attitude. Whereas the environment in a country like the US, that encourages individual expression, will give people hope. Life can change for the better and the person has control over their own happiness.

    Religious Value

    • Religious values and social values can be heavily linked. In religious communities, the social values are directly impacted by the shared religious/spiritual beliefs. Most all religions speak of hope, faith and staying positive through adversity. These belief systems can help a person keep a positive attitude in life.

    Needs

    • A positive attitude is relative. The needs of a person greatly determine one's ability to remain positive. If the values of the society state that anywhere you have a meal is a good day, then what it means to be positive is tied to survival. In more developed societies, social values may prize success or service. In both societies, there are others who are worse off. By living in a world of diversity, people can examine the hardship of others to help them get context for their own life. This can help cultivate a positive attitude and one of gratefulness.

    Support

    • Social values are also reflected in the support systems offered by a society. Western societies provide many assistance programs to those in need, whether this be financial, emotional, mental or physical. The social values of the society state that those in need should receive help to keep them moving forward happily in life. Knowing that help is there assists in maintaining a positive attitude.

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