Simply put, a social worker with a “strengths-based perspective” emphasizes client strengths as a starting point in addressing challenges. This perspective relies on the notion that every client has strengths that can be leveraged to create productive change and progress toward achievement of goals. Client strengths can include a variety of attributes, from complex professional skill sets or well-developed emotional intelligence to mobility, literacy, or good health.
For this Discussion, think about your family of origin. Consider the strengths particular to your family of origin. Imagine how those strengths might play a part in helping your family to overcome a challenging situation.
Post a description of at least three strengths that you can identify within your family. Describe how the strengths might support a strengths-based plan to meet a challenge.
References
- Epley, P., Summers, J. A., & Turnbull, A. (2010). Characteristics and trends in family-centered conceptualizations. Journal of Family Social Work, 13(3), 269–285.
- Oravecz, L. M., Osteen, P. J., Sharpe, T. L., & Randolph, S. M. (2011). Assessing low-income African American pre-schoolers’ behavior problems in relationship to community violence, inter-partner conflict, parenting, informal social support and social skills. Child & Family Social Work, 16(3),310–324.
