A reflection on values in turbulent times

We discuss how organizations, as cultures, react to times of turbulence, stress, and the importance of their foundational values during those times. By adapting the framework pioneered by the organizational analyst Manfred Kets de Vries, we use psychodynamic concepts to discuss a descriptive typology of behavior in which persons and organizations engage under stress. We also discuss the hazards inherent in losing sight of common core values, the dangers in the disconnects between stated values and behaviors, and how those disconnects can be destructive to organizations and to persons. We conclude with a plan that involves achieving insight, trust, and open communication on which members of organizations can base discussion and find common ground in articulating common core values. Throughout the article, we make applications to nursing organizations to focus attention on the currency of this topic for the profession.