The Security scale measures those values associated with minimising risk, employment uncertainty and a strong need for planning, structure and order. Higher scorers likely value predictability and choose to take the necessary steps to ensure their day is planned. When individuals score average or low on Security, it will be important to look into the item themes to gain a better understanding of how the value operates for them. Provided below is additional interpretation for each item theme for the Security scale.

Lifestyles

We likely will find those scoring higher on Lifestyles taking time to plan out their future goals and creating structure in how they plan on making tough decisions in the future should change arise. Higher scorers also tend to prefer a lifestyle that is organised around minimising risk especially in financial or job contexts. On the other hand, lower scorers don’t have the need to have everything planned out accordingly but rather take challenges as they arise. Those scoring lower may also be more likely to take risks and engage in thrill seeking behaviours.

Beliefs

People scoring higher on Beliefs likely live by the motto “better safe than sorry” as they would rather make sure to have a series of checks and balances in place versus running into an unforeseen challenge. Also, they feel that having a sense of stability will help ensure they won’t be left in a challenging situation. Lower scorers however don’t believe it is necessary to have everything all planned out but rather feel things should happen as they come. Those scoring lower are also likely to believe that risk taking is something to be relished than to be feared.

Occupational Preferences

Those scoring higher on Occupational Preferences likely seek out jobs that either have a clear plan and objective in place or provide the opportunity to create structure in the job itself. They may also seek organisations that have been around a very long time or have credibility in their industry versus startup companies that have not built their reputation yet. Lastly, they likely choose jobs that offer long term financial stability that they can depend on. Lower scorers however likely don’t worry about financial stability per se but rather will focus on the opportunity of the job. Those scoring lower may be more comfortable moving from job to job in search of new challenges and opportunities.

Aversions

Higher scorers on Aversions tend to steer away from those who appear reckless and unconcerned with their actions. They don’t like the unexpected and have a hard time with change or unforeseen challenges. In general, people scoring high on Aversions will tend to be more uncomfortable in unpredictable or risky environments, or in rapidly changing environments. On the other hand, lower scores take change and challenge with stride and don’t seem to get bothered when encountering situations that are not planned.

Preferred Associates

We likely will find those scoring higher on Preferred Associates enjoy interacting with others who share their same need for consistency. They likely take time in choosing who they associate with ensuring that they are dependable and can be counted on. Given their need to minimise change and uncertainty, they will seek this from others; we likely will not see them spending their time with those who are unpredictable. Lower scorers don’t have as many issues with those who take risk or chances and likely choose to interact with a variety of individuals regardless of their need for risk or not.