Means-end chains as goal hierarchies

TLDR

A means‑end chain (MEC) is a hierarchical structure of goals—action, outcome, and consequence levels—where action units (AUs) are planned sequences of acts that may comprise part or all of a MEC, and goals beyond the AU can reflect underlying values. Laddering analysis shows respondents move beyond their initial action goals toward higher‑level goals. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Abstract

A means–end chain (MEC) has been defined as a hierarchy of goals that represents potential identities of the actions necessary for the person to reach his or her goal. Goals as ends in MECs can be grouped into three levels: action goals (concerned with the act itself), outcome goals (immediate effects of actions), and consequences (indirect effects stemming from outcomes). An action unit (AU) is defined as a planned sequence of acts directed toward goal achievement. AUs may be part or all of a MEC, thus the highest goal in a MEC may not be what the consumer has in mind when making a purchase or consumption decision. Data are presented that suggest that laddering takes respondents beyond the intended goals of their initial actions or choice. Goals beyond AU's which are part of a MEC may represent the underlying reasons why we strive for the goals we do. This seems to be one useful way to differentiate goals from values. Goals are what we want; values are why we want them. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.