A value is a guide, a norm, a principle by which a person lives. There are seven criteria which together constitute an operational definition of a value.

1) A value must be chosen freely. The values that a person chooses freely are the one that he will internalize, cherish, and allow to guide his life.

2) A value must be chosen from alternatives. If there are not alternatives, there is no freedom of choice.

3) A value must be chosen after considering the consequences. Only after the foreseeable alternatives are fully and clearly understood is a person able to make a free and intelligent choice.

4) A value must be performed. A value is acted upon, performed, carried out; it influences a person’s behavior in some way.

5) A value becomes a pattern of life. Values are acted upon repeatedly and become part of the foundation for one’s life. Basic values manifest themselves in all aspects of one’s existence.

6) A value is cherished. A value is something a person feels positive about. As the individual grows toward full development of his values, he derives increasingly greater contentment, satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy from choosing his own destiny.

7) A value is publicly affirmed. A value freely chosen is demonstrated on one’s actions.

I found this by Googling “A value must be chosen freely” and

“A value must be chosen from alternatives”.

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=%22a+value+must+be+chosen+freely%22+%2B+%22A+value+must+be+chosen+from+alternatives

Good luck in your studies,

~ Mitch ~

P.S. – These sites appear to be religious-based.

I neither agree or disagree with their statements,

just passing along the information I found which

seems to answer your question. – Good luck.