Mixed Methods in Value Research: An Analysis of the Validity of the Russian Version of the Schwartz Value Survey (SVS) Using Cognitive Interviews, Multidimensional Scaling (MDS), and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA)

The aim of this study is the validation of the Russian version of the Schwartz Value Survey (SVS) using qualitative (cognitive interviewing) and quantitative (multidimensional scaling, confirmatory factor analysis) methods. Specifically, this paper explores the issue of whether respondents interpret the values measured in the survey in the way intended by Shalom Schwartz. The analysis revealed problems with participants’ understanding of the wording, which are due both to subtle differences in translation and to the cultural context. In addition, multidimensional scaling and confirmatory factor analysis were used to investigate whether the problems found in the qualitative analysis could also be detected by these quantitative methods. The findings of the qualitative analysis allowed a better understanding of the findings of the quantitative analysis and vice versa. However, the results differed considerably. In conclusion, several recommendations are given for use of such a mixed method approach.