What term describes the framework for decision-making based on personal meaning in life?

The term that describes the framework for decision-making based on personal meaning in life is values. Values encompass the beliefs, principles, and ideals that individuals hold important, guiding their behavior and influencing their choices in various situations, including ethical dilemmas in healthcare.

Values shape how individuals perceive what is right and wrong, acceptable and unacceptable. They are deeply personal and can be derived from cultural, religious, or philosophical understandings, and they serve as a compass that helps people navigate complex decisions by providing a means to evaluate the significance of each option in relation to their personal beliefs and goals.

In the context of healthcare, understanding a patient's values can lead to more personalized and effective care. It helps healthcare providers to respect the wishes and priorities of patients, ensuring that treatment plans align with what matters most to them. This alignment fosters trust and enhances patient autonomy, crucial elements in ethical healthcare practice.