Valuing Questionnaire (VQ)

The Valuing Questionnaire (VQ) is a 10-item self-report scale designed to measure how consistently an individual has been living with their self-determined values and is particularly helpful when administered during a course of ACT.

  • 2 minutes
  • Ages 15+
  • Formulation, Outcome Monitoring

Two subscale scores are presented, Progress and Obstruction, which typically exhibit a negative correlation. Understanding these scales can provide insight into an individual’s psychological well-being and how effectively they align their actions with their internal values.

– Progress is defined as the enactment and perseverance in living consistently with one’s values. This scale measures how closely an individual’s actions align with their core beliefs and values. Higher scores indicate a strong alignment, suggesting that the person is actively making choices and engaging in behaviors that resonate with what they consider important in life. This might include pursuing career goals that reflect one’s ethical beliefs, maintaining relationships that are supportive, or engaging in community service that is meaningful to them. The concept of Progress emphasizes personal growth, commitment to values, and the fulfillment that arises from living authentically.

– Obstruction, on the other hand, represents the extent to which various disruptions impede valued living. This includes internal obstacles, such as self-doubt, fear, and anxiety, as well as external factors that may interfere with one’s ability to act in accordance with their values. Higher scores on this scale signify greater interference, which can manifest as significant struggles in everyday life. These disruptions may lead to feelings of frustration, disconnection, or a sense of being stuck, thereby diminishing the individual’s overall satisfaction and psychological health.

Scores indicative of psychological health reflect high scores on the Progress scale accompanied by low scores on the Obstruction scale. This balance suggests that a person is not only aware of and clear about their values but is also successfully navigating obstacles that may hinder their path towards fulfilling those values. Cultivating an environment that fosters Progress while minimizing Obstruction can help individuals achieve a greater sense of well-being and fulfillment in their lives. Consequently, interventions aimed at enhancing Progress should focus on reinforcing positive behaviors and experiences, while strategies to reduce Obstruction should address the barriers that individuals face on their journey toward living authentically.

Sample VQ Questions:

Developer

Smout, M., Davies, M., Burns, N., & Christie, A. (2014). Development of the valuing questionnaire (VQ). Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science, 3(3), 164-172.