Affiliations: The Institute of Gerontology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, U.S.A.
Note: [*] Portions of this article were supported by the American Values and the Elderly Project, sponsored by the Administration on Aging, Grant #90-1-1325. Special thanks is given to Beverly LaLonde, Jane McClure, Sue Sweeny, and Terrence Tice for comments. An earlier draft appears in the 2nd Edition of F.M. Cox, et al, Tactics and Techniques of Community Practice, (Itasca: F.E. Peacock, 1984).
Abstract: The value underpinnings of policy conflict and decision-making are generally recognized as important but given little attention. A perspective on policy-relevant value dimensions is presented which argues that values exist in juxtaposed sets. Emphasis upon one element in the set stresses the other value, causing value conflict and the need for adjustment. Policy makers need to take account of these value conflicts and devise strategies to overcome their potential negating effects. A list of ten strategies is suggested for optimizing policy impact in the fact of multiple and conflicting values.
