Values Work With Adolescents: A Qualitative Component Analysis Using an Integrative Model of Values and Behavior

Abstract

Adolescence is a time of vulnerability to psychological distress and emotional disorders, necessitating effective and developmentally appropriate treatment. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is an evidence-based intervention with values work at the heart of the method. Values work involves clinical interventions that shore up a client’s ability to act in alignment with their personal values, a practice evidenced to improve psychological well-being. However, there is a dearth of research into the process of values work within ACT and values work research with adolescents is even more sparse. The current study aims to clarify values work with adolescents. We used a qualitative online survey of 28 ACT clinicians. Responses were analyzed using defined content analysis with a research-based integrative model of values and behavior (IMVB). Analysis indicated the IMVB’s mechanisms were prevalent across and within surveys, suggesting applicability to clinical values work interventions. The IMVB functioned to clarify components and adaptations of values work with adolescents. Several themes were generated outside of the IMVB, suggesting adolescents have further developmental needs during values work. Results indicate distinct alterations may be warranted for effective values work with adolescents. The IMVB may have further utility for exploring research and clinical inquiry into ACT values work.