This study sought to describe how work values of 110 disadvantaged persons differ from those of 180 regularly employed, unskilled and semiskilled subjects, to identify biographical correlates of work values endorsed by the hard core, and to detect changes in work values as a function of training. Data were gathered via questionnaires and interviews. Hard-core trainees differed markedly from regular employees in work values. They placed less emphasis on the tendency to keep active on the job, the perceived social status of being employed, and the intrinsic rewards of work. Disadvantaged subjects stressed making money on the job and taking pride in their work more than did the regular employees. Significant relationships were found between background characteristics and work values of the hard core. Changes in work values of disadvantaged persons involved in eight weeks of training did not differ significantly from those of 252 non-equivalent control subjects (insurance agents and college students). Several suggestions were made regarding methods of training which are likely to alter work values. (Author)