Values: The Flip Side of the Wellbeing Coin

Abstract

This chapter will explore the links between well-being and ethical professionalism. Krieger’s research suggests that the psychological factors that influence whether lawyers are mentally healthy and happy (thriving) also influence their ethical decision-making and level of professionalism. Self-Determination Theory holds that, to live a satisfying life, several psychological needs must be met: our needs for ‘autonomy’, ‘competence’ and ‘relatedness’. A professional exhibits integrity (autonomy), competence and service, and displays interpersonal skills when relating to colleagues and clients (relatedness to others).

Our workplace can influence whether we meet our basic needs and are able to express/enact our values. Workplace culture plays a critical role in encouraging or discouraging ethical behaviour. A workplace that takes into consideration the many influences on our ethical decision-making (cognitive, psychological and social) can create a more positive ethical culture. In turn, it seems that effective regulation can encourage legal practices to build more ethical cultures.

But ethical behaviour is not determined by workplace culture. While it is often difficult to resist a workplace culture or a superior’s direction to act unethically, if we understand how we are influenced by our environment, we are more likely to be aware of that effect, and learn how to counter it. We are more likely to enact our values and in doing so, it seems that we so shore up our well-being.