Suchergebnisse

The strengths perspective has not been thoroughly operationalized for use in assessment and treatment with children and their families. Clinicians working from this perspective have relied mostly on resilience theory which can limit a more complete utilization of strengths in the treatment process. This article presents a framework that is organized around domains of functioning of the child. The assessment and utilization of a wide array of strengths drawn from a child's everyday functioning are highlighted as a way to approach clinical work with children and their families. Descriptions of concrete strategies and examples of clinical questions are provided, coupled with a case example that reflects the theme of strengths in action.

The importance of examining positive aspects of youth development has been emphasized across disciplines involved in the care of youth with substance abuse problems. However, little is known about the strengths of adolescents with substance abuse problems, especially youth entering residential treatment. Utilizing the Strengths Assessment Inventory, a measure assessing psychological and social strengths, we examined patterns of strengths across groups of age- and gender-matched youth who reported no substance use, frequent substance use, and those entering treatment for severe substance use. Each group consisted of 43 participants ranging in age from 14 to 18 years. Results indicated that, on average, individuals entering treatment scored lower on personal strengths. However, through the use of more sophisticated statistical approaches, it was found that certain strengths were predictive of individuals belonging to the treatment group. Results are discussed in terms of their relevance to the treatment of adolescent substance abuse problems.