National Association of Boards of Long Term Care Administrator (NAB) CORE Practice Exam

What best describes the principles that underpin an organization's moral foundation?

1. Mission

2. Vision

3. Values

4. Philosophy

The correct answer is: Values

The principles that underpin an organization's moral foundation are encapsulated in its values. Values represent the core beliefs and ethical standards that guide the behavior and decision-making of an organization. They establish a framework for how individuals within the organization should conduct themselves and interact with stakeholders, including staff, residents, and the community. Values create a consistent approach to addressing ethical dilemmas and help to foster a culture of integrity. This commitment to values can evoke trust and respect among constituents, leading to a positive organizational reputation and employee morale. While mission, vision, and philosophy are important elements of an organization's identity, they primarily focus on what the organization aims to achieve (mission), where it sees itself in the future (vision), and the broader context of its principles (philosophy). However, it is the values that specifically articulate the ethical foundation that influences the organization's conduct on a day-to-day basis. This makes values the most accurate descriptor of the moral underpinnings of an organization.