Variability in value system priorities as decision‐making adaptation to situational differences

This study provides a rationale and empirical support for a theory of values as constructs in flexible systems which change in structure through sensitivity to situational differences. Accordingly, as individuals encounter different situations, they create value systems which are flexibly adapted to the particular situation. This decision‐making view of values emphasizes their dynamic contribution to the total individual effort to define and evaluate situations as part of choosing and behaving