6. Adolescent Musical Preferences and their Relationship with Schwartz’s Basic Values

Abstract

This study aimed to identify musical preferences in Serbian adolescents and determine a potential relationship between them and the adolescents’ values. The sample included 1,358 respondents (aged 15–17). Musical preferences were investigated through a scale that included twelve music genres and ten values from Schwartz’s instrument. Four musical preference factors were revealed: Rebellious (Metal, Rock, Punk, and avoidance of Folk music); Sophisticated (Jazz, R&B, Reggae); Energetic (Techno, Hip-hop, House); and Conventional (Pop). Relationships with value dimensions were established, e.g., Rebellious preference correlates positively with Universalism, Power, and Self-direction and negatively with Hedonism and Benevolence; Sophisticated preference is positively and strongly related to Self-direction and Stimulation, while negatively with Security, Conformity, and Tradition; Energetic preference correlates positively with Universalism and negatively with Hedonism; and Conventional preference correlates negatively with Power and Self-direction and positively with Benevolence. Results suggest that the music preferences of Serbian adolescents are comparable to those identified in other countries and that it is possible to relate them to values that the adolescents hold.