When values matter: Expressing values in behavioral intentions for the near vs. distant future.

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Behavioral Science
• Social Psychology

Background:

• Values, as abstract principles, are thought to guide behavior.
• The temporal distance of future events may influence the applicability of values in behavioral planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of values on behavioral intentions across different future timeframes.
• To examine how construal level and feasibility considerations mediate the relationship between values and behavioral intentions.

Main Methods:

• Four experiments were conducted to test the predictive power of values on behavioral intentions.
• Behavioral intentions were assessed for near and distant future situations.
• The role of abstract values versus concrete feasibility considerations was explored.
• The influence of construal level (high-level vs. low-level) on the value-intention link was examined.

Main Results:

• Values were found to be stronger predictors of behavioral intentions for distant future situations compared to near future situations.
• High-level values predicted distant future intentions, while low-level feasibility considerations predicted proximate future intentions.
• The relationship between values and behavioral intentions was moderated by the construal level of the behavior and temporal distance.

Conclusions:

• The abstract nature of values makes them more influential in planning for the distant future.
• Feasibility considerations become more important for planning immediate actions.
• Understanding temporal factors and construal levels is crucial for predicting behavior based on values and for managing value conflicts.