Strength Based Approach

 

Each of us is a combination of strengths and weaknesses.  In the past, helping agencies have focused primarily on problems, deficiencies, and needs.  Recent research, however, suggests that the greatest progress can be achieved by focusing on the individual’s strengths.  Focusing on the negative reinforces low expectations and creates dependencies.  Conversely, a positive emphasis on resilience and protective factors/assets/strengths communicates a sense of hope, establishes expectations for success within an individual's capacities, promotes empowerment and independence and sets in motion forces for improvement.