A reflection on values in turbulent times

We discuss how organizations, as cultures, react to times of turbulence, st ress, and the importance of their foundational valves during those times. B y adapting the framework pioneered by the organizational analyst Manfred Ke ts de Vries, we use psychodynamic concepts to discuss a descriptive typolog y of behavior in which persons and organizations engage under stress. We al so discuss the hazards inherent in losing sight of common core values, the dangers in the disconnects between stated values and behaviors, and how tho se disconnects can be destructive to organizations and to persons. We concl ude with a plan that involves achieving insight, tryst, and open communicat ion on which members of organizations can base discussion and find common g round in articulating common core values. Throughout the article, we make a pplications to nursing organizations to focus attention on the currency of this topic for the profession.