Mental Health Professional and Client Values: Similar or Different?

SynopsisThe Rokeach Value Survey and Rosenthal Moral Values Questionnaire were used to examine similarities and differences in the personal and moral value systems of mental health professionals (N = 454, including psychiatrists, psychologists and social workers) and clients (N = 431, including psychiatric inpatients, and clients of tertiary student counselling centres and o f marriage counselling agencies) within the Australian setting. Multiple discriminant analysis statistical procedures were employed and significant differences emerged between the professional and client groups. Mental health professionals supported values stressing self-direction, mature personal action and a greater tolerance for freedom in the area o f sexual behaviour, while the client group emphasised selfcontrol and restraints on sexual behaviour. In view o f the divergent value stances o f professionals and clients, potential implications for the practice of therapy are raised.