From values to actions: Recent applications of the expectancy‐value model

This article is concerned with the relation between values and actions. Theoretical approaches to this issue are considered that are based upon cognitive‐developmental theory and social learning theory. The preferred theoretical approach is by way of expectancy‐value theory with the addition of the key assumption that a person's values, once engaged, induce valences (or positive and negative subjective values) on actions and their possible outcomes and future consequences. Actions are assumed to occur in relation to these induced valences and the person's expectations about the likelihood of achieving the outcomes and future consequences. Three recent studies are described that apply this general approach in three different contexts: assisting a social movement organisation, seeking employment, and selecting an academic course. Future directions for research are suggested that include more detailed conceptual and empirical analyses of expectations, valences and their combination, and the incorporation of recent developments in the psychology of volition and action control. 1988 Australian Psychological Society