Case Study Methodology for Values-Needs Analysis

Working Paper

Amy Skaar
Axiomatic Insights
ORCID ID: 0009-0000-1763-6644

Abstract

This paper presents a systematic methodology for analyzing case studies within Skaar's Theory of Value-Needs Alignment framework. The methodology emerged from thirty years of practitioner-researcher experience, documenting real-world applications during theory development rather than post-hoc validation studies. The approach provides systematic protocols for documenting values-needs conflicts, intervention strategies, and outcomes across diverse contexts while maintaining quality assurance and cultural awareness. The methodology includes five-phase analysis framework, cross-case pattern recognition protocols, and ethical considerations for biographical research. This documentation enables replication of successful intervention strategies, recognition of framework limitations, and training of additional practitioners using validated approaches. The systematic approach demonstrates how practitioner-researcher methodology can bridge academic rigor with practical application in human behavior analysis.

Introduction: Case Study Origins and Development Context

This methodology document outlines the systematic approach to analyzing case studies within Skaar's Theory of Value-Needs Alignment. Importantly, these case studies represent examples of portions of the theory being applied during its creation, often marking significant moments of theoretical development rather than post-hoc validation studies.

Framework Development Through Practice

The framework emerged from thirty years of systematic observation across corporate, personal, and coaching contexts, not constructed in academic isolation. The case studies documented here capture pivotal moments during theory development when:

• Core insights crystallized through real-world application

• Framework elements proved effective in resolving complex conflicts

• Theoretical boundaries and limitations became apparent

• Intervention strategies demonstrated reproducible patterns

• Fundamental principles were refined through practice

This development approach represents practitioner-researcher methodology where theoretical understanding evolved through sustained engagement with actual human conflicts rather than abstract conceptualization. The case studies therefore serve dual purposes: demonstrating framework effectiveness while documenting the discovery process that shaped theoretical development.

Case Study Selection Criteria

The documented cases represent systematic sampling across:

Context Diversity:

• Workplace ethical dilemmas

• Personal relationship conflicts

• Educational/coaching applications

• Family dynamics and mentoring

• Crisis intervention scenarios

Participant Demographics:

• Age range: 15-55 years

• Professional contexts: students, executives, retail workers

• Relationship types: family, colleagues, coaching clients

• Cultural backgrounds: Midwest/Pacific Northwest USA contexts

Framework Development Significance:

• Cases that revealed core theoretical insights

• Examples demonstrating framework limitations

• Situations requiring intervention refinement

• Outcomes that informed safety protocols

• Applications expanding theoretical scope

Systematic Case Analysis Methodology

Methodology Development Note: The five-phase analysis framework described below was developed retrospectively through systematic review of documented cases, not applied as a predetermined protocol. This methodology represents the systematic patterns that emerged from analyzing real-world applications during theory development.

Phase 1: Situational Documentation

Background Analysis:

• Context Setting: Document environmental factors, relationships, and circumstances without identifying details

• Stakeholder Mapping: Identify all parties involved and their role dynamics

• Timeline Establishment: Note duration of conflict and intervention timing

• Presenting Issue Classification: Categorize the surface-level problem description

Information Sources:

• Direct conversation summaries (when available)

• Participant self-reporting of outcomes

• Observable behavioral changes

• Follow-up communications over time

• Collateral information from context (workplace, family dynamics)

Phase 2: Values-Needs Conflict Identification

Systematic Framework Application:

Need Identification Protocol:

• Document all fundamental needs apparent in the situation

• Distinguish needs from wants through operational criteria:

  • Required for biological, psychological, or social functioning

  • Creates dysfunction when chronically unmet

  • Drives behavior unconsciously when unsatisfied

  • Universal across human populations

Values Discovery Process:

• Identify stated values through direct expression

• Infer values through behavioral choices and priorities

• Distinguish conscious from unconscious values

• Map values conflicts (competing values within same individual)

Conflict Mapping Framework:

• Primary Tension: Core values-needs conflict driving the situation

• Secondary Conflicts: Additional value-value or need-need tensions

• Temporal Dynamics: How conflicts evolved over time

• Cascade Effects: How unresolved primary conflicts created additional problems

Phase 3: Intervention Analysis

Question Strategy Documentation:

• Entry Point: How the core question ("What need are you trying to meet?") was introduced contextually

• Sequencing: Order of questions and rationale for progression

• Adaptation: How questions were modified for individual readiness

• Resistance Patterns: Points of defensiveness and navigation strategies

Response Pattern Analysis:

• Recognition Markers: Indicators of framework comprehension

• Breakthrough Moments: Specific insights that shifted perspective

• Solution Generation: How individuals developed their own resolutions

• Implementation Barriers: Obstacles to acting on insights

Phase 4: Outcome Assessment

Immediate Results:

• Conflict Resolution: Whether primary tension was addressed

• Emotional Relief: Reduction in distress or internal turmoil

• Decision Clarity: Ability to choose direction with confidence

• Framework Integration: Understanding of values-needs dynamic

Longitudinal Tracking:

• Behavioral Changes: Sustained modifications in actions or strategies

• Pattern Recognition: Ability to apply framework to new situations

• Relationship Impacts: Changes in interpersonal dynamics

• Values Evolution: Conscious examination and potential modification of values

Phase 5: Theoretical Insight Extraction

Framework Validation:

• Successful Applications: How case confirms theoretical predictions

• Limitation Discovery: Where framework proved insufficient or inappropriate

• Refinement Needs: Theoretical adjustments suggested by case outcome

• Contraindication Identification: Circumstances requiring alternative approaches

Methodological Learning:

• Effective Interventions: Question patterns and approaches that worked

• Failed Strategies: Interventions that created resistance or confusion

• Safety Considerations: Psychological risks and protective protocols

• Practitioner Development: Skills and awareness requirements identified

Documentation Standards and Systematic Recording

Case Study Template Structure

Required Documentation Elements:

1. Case Overview

   • Participant demographic context (age, role, general background)

   • Relationship to practitioner (family, client, colleague, etc.)

   • Timeframe and duration of interaction

2. Presenting Situation

   • Initial problem description in participant's language

   • Environmental context and pressures

   • Stakeholder involvement and dynamics

3. Values-Needs Analysis

   • Identified fundamental needs (using operational criteria)

   • Expressed or inferred values (conscious and unconscious)

   • Specific conflict dynamics and their manifestations

4. Intervention Process

   • Questions used and sequencing rationale

   • Participant responses and recognition patterns

   • Breakthrough moments and insight development

   • Self-generated solution emergence

5. Outcomes and Follow-up

   • Immediate resolution or decision clarity

   • Behavioral changes and sustained application

   • Relationship impacts and broader implications

   • Long-term framework integration

6. Theoretical Insights

   • Framework validation or limitation discovery

   • Methodological learning and refinement needs

   • Contribution to theoretical development

   • Implications for practitioner training

Quality Assurance Protocols

Accuracy Standards:

• Anonymization: Remove all identifying details while preserving essential dynamics

• Verification: Confirm major outcomes through follow-up when appropriate

• Multiple Perspectives: Include stakeholder feedback when available

• Timeline Integrity: Accurate sequencing of events and interventions

Analytical Rigor:

• Alternative Explanations: Consider other factors that might explain outcomes

• Bias Recognition: Acknowledge practitioner assumptions and limitations

• Replication Potential: Document sufficient detail for methodology reproduction

• Boundary Conditions: Identify contextual factors affecting transferability

Systematic Pattern Recognition Across Cases

Cross-Case Analysis Framework

Comparative Methodology:

Success Pattern Identification:

• Common elements in resolved conflicts

• Effective question sequences across contexts

• Participant readiness indicators

• Environmental factors supporting resolution

Failure Mode Analysis:

• Consistent limitations across multiple cases

• Contraindication patterns and warning signs

• Intervention strategies that create resistance

• Contexts where framework proves insufficient

Population Variation Study:

• Age-related differences in framework application

• Geographical or cultural context impacts on values expression

• Professional role effects on conflict types

• Relationship dynamic influences on intervention success

Framework Evolution Through Case Analysis

Theoretical Refinement Process:

Concept Development:

• How specific cases led to theoretical insights

• Evolution of key definitions through practical application

• Discovery of framework boundaries and scope

• Integration of new elements based on empirical observation

Intervention Innovation:

• Development of new question strategies through case experience

• Refinement of safety protocols based on challenging situations

• Creation of adaptation techniques for diverse populations

• Integration of cultural awareness through varied case exposure

Validation Evidence:

• Consistency of outcomes across similar case types

• Reproducibility of intervention strategies

• Predictive value of framework concepts

• Explanatory power across varied contexts

Research Applications and Future Development

Future Research Directions

Potential Development Areas:

• Expanded case documentation across additional contexts and populations

• Longitudinal outcome tracking where appropriate and feasible

• Multi-practitioner collaboration for methodology validation

• Cross-cultural application studies in varied geographical and cultural contexts

Methodological Advancement

Research Integration:

• Heroes Research Validation: Using systematic analysis of 1000 heroes to validate fundamental needs categories identified through case studies

• Academic Collaboration: Potential partnership with research institutions for controlled validation studies

• Practitioner Training: Development of certification programs based on documented case methodologies

• Assessment Tool Creation: Standardized instruments for values-needs conflict identification

Contribution to Theoretical Literature

Academic Positioning:

• Novel Framework Documentation: First systematic theory identifying values-needs conflicts as fundamental driver

• Prevention Focus Evidence: Case documentation of successful intervention before crisis development

• Cross-Domain Application: Demonstration of framework utility across psychological, organizational, and educational contexts

• Practitioner-Researcher Model: Alternative to traditional academic theory development through sustained practice engagement

Ethical Considerations and Limitations

Consent and Privacy Protocols

Participant Protection:

• Informed Consent: Clear explanation of documentation purposes when appropriate

• Anonymization Standards: Complete removal of identifying information

• Outcome Verification: Participant confirmation of major results when possible

• Autonomy Respect: No coercion toward specific resolution approaches

Methodological Limitations

Documentation Constraints:

• Practitioner Perspective Bias: Single viewpoint on complex interpersonal dynamics

• Retrospective Recording: Some cases documented months or years after occurrence

• Cultural Context Limits: Current case base primarily from specific USA regional contexts

• Long-term Follow-up Challenges: Limited systematic tracking beyond immediate outcomes

Framework Application Boundaries

Recognized Limitations:

• Crisis State Contraindications: Framework ineffective during acute psychological crisis

• Cognitive Prerequisites: Requires basic self-awareness and abstract thinking capacity

• Values Alignment Cases: No conflict resolution when needs and harmful values align

• Cultural Translation: Unknown effectiveness across significantly different cultural contexts

Conclusion

This methodology provides systematic approach to analyzing case studies that document real-world application of Skaar's Theory of Value-Needs Alignment during its thirty-year development period. The cases represent neither post-hoc validation nor controlled studies, but rather pivotal moments of theoretical discovery through sustained practitioner-researcher engagement with actual human conflicts.

The documented methodology enables:

• Replication of successful intervention strategies across contexts

• Recognition of framework limitations and contraindications

• Refinement of theoretical understanding through empirical observation

• Training of additional practitioners using validated approaches

• Research expansion through systematic case accumulation

Future research priorities include developing multi-practitioner validation studies, and creating standardized assessment instruments based on documented successful interventions. The combination of theoretical sophistication with practical accessibility, demonstrated through systematic case analysis, positions this framework for broader application in educational, therapeutic, and organizational contexts.

About the Author

Amy Skaar is the founder of Axiomatic Insights and a systems thinker specializing in framework development and human behavior analysis. She holds Project Management Professional (PMP) certification and has over 15 years of Fortune 500 experience. Her interdisciplinary background spans management consulting, instructional design, entrepreneurship, and award-winning fine art. This case study methodology emerged from thirty years of systematic observation and practical application across corporate, personal, and coaching contexts, with formal documentation completed in 2025.

Corresponding Author: Amy Skaar, Axiomatic Insights
Email: amy@axiomaticinsights.com
ORCID ID: 0009-0000-1763-6644

Document Information:

• Classification: Working Paper

• Version: 2.0

• Date: July 2025

• Status: Under Development

Copyright Notice: © 2025 Amy Skaar, Axiomatic Insights. All rights reserved.