Human Behavior > Values are Dynamic Constructs
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Values are Dynamic ConstructsValues are Dynamic Constructs
Values are long-term intra-psychical constructs. Since they are positioned nearer to the centre of human functioning than attitudes, it is to be expected that they would also be less amendable than attitudes.
Our value systems are not written in stone by the time that we reach a certain age. Values change and can be changed through the ability of free choice. In fact, all real changes in ourselves are in some way or the other linked to a change in our value preferences. The question is now - how do values change? We have already indicated that a change in attitudes often is of short duration, because the underlying value(s) does not change. With that the principle for change in the permanent interaction structures has been introduced, namely that the more centrally-positioned functioning constructs actually determine changes on levels that are less centrally situated. It is because of this that attitudes change when the underlying values change. This also means that human values are going to change when a more centrally-located functioning construct, i.e. the self and self-concept, is involved in the process. In cases where a discrepancy between the self-concept and values are created, it is most likely that the values of the person will change. We have to keep in mind that man is a rational entity who can reach out beyond his own existence. He can, as it was, stand outside himself, take note of what goes on in his inner being and analyse and evaluate that on the cognitive level. This ability is then seen as the accessing port to change on the levels of the self-concept and values. We must first become aware of our own self-concept and values, of the manner in which they function in our lives, of their effect on our behaviour and of the possibility of change. Single-dimensional inputs are not really effective in the changing of the self-concept or values. In this regard a holistic approach must be followed in which all dimensions are integrated in a wide ranging process of an appraisal directed at changes in values and the self-concept. The individual must be guided to knowledge and understanding of his or her inner being. He or she must be schooled in intra-psychical examination and reconstruction. It is not enough only to help somebody on theoretical level to obtain insight into his or her own values. Such a person must also be helped to deal with the alternatives on the cognitive levels. In addition to this, the person must be assisted in the consolidation of the restructuring by offering him or her the opportunity to implement it in a practical manner and even checking to see whether he or she has done so. This aspect of Functional Intelligence will inevitably lead to conflict. The client must be confronted with the reality of the demands that postulate a specific value structure. Should, however, the confrontation take place before the client has identified his or her value system, he or she will simply reject it. |