Values in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ValuesJ. Ryan Fuller, Ph.D.

New York Behavioral HealthNew York, NY

Valued Maxim

“Outcome is the process through which process becomes the outcome.”

Values DefinedCan’t be achieved Guide behavior

Life Domains (1)1) Intimate Relations2) Family Relations3) Social Relations4) Vocational/Avocational

Life Domains (2)5) Growth & Mastery6) Recreation & Leisure7) Spirituality8) Citizenship9) Physical Health

Values vs. GoalsValues can never be absolutely achievedRather they provide directionGoals can be achieved, ie, completed- like an

outcomeGoals are the means to an unreachable end

(value)

Values Clarification (1)Select a life domainFollow up with questions

Values Clarification (2)

I value this because somebody else wants me to or thinks I ought to, or because someone else will like it if I do. I

probably wouldn’t say I value this if I didn’t get some kind of praise or approval for it.

-Personal Values Questionnaire


I value this because I would feel ashamed, guilty, or anxious if I didn’t.



I value this because I view it as important, whether or not others agree. Although this value may have been taught to me by

others, now it is my own heartfelt value.



I value this because doing these things makes my life better, more meaningful, and/or more vital.



I value this because I experience fun and enjoyment when I am engaged in the value.



In the last month, I have been this successful in living this value (in acting consistently with this value):



I am this committed to living this value (to acting consistently with this value):



How important is this value to you?



Right now, would you like to improve your progress on this value?


Values Card Sort

Health & Medicine

Values in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)