Policies that impacted families and/or children.
As a professional, in what way would you like to be involved in working with families to develop strengths? What aspect of this work sounds interesting to you? Choose one (1) of the four following work options to respond to and be sure to describe how a strengths-based perspective can change the lives of children and families. Cite your reading and one additional resource in your response.
1. If you are interested in policies, compare two policies that impacted families and/or children. Discuss how they use a strengths-based approach or how they could be improved to be more strength-focused.
2. If you would like to be a counselor, compare two family therapeutic approaches. What are the strengths and weaknesses of each? How could each be improved or applied to better work for diverse families?
3. If you are interested in working with young children, develop a program specifically dealing with some aspect of child development. Ground the program in a family-strengths perspective and cultural sensitivity principles.
4. If you are interested in working in the community with families, research family resource centers in your home state or town. What populations do they serve? What resources do they offer? How could the resource center be improved to better meet the needs of diverse families?
Sample Solution
Option 2: Counselor
I am drawn to the role of a counselor due to the opportunity for direct, interpersonal connection with families. By understanding and leveraging their strengths, counselors can empower families to overcome challenges and reach their full potential.
Comparing Family Therapeutic Approaches: A Strengths-Based Perspective
Two prominent family therapeutic approaches are Structural Family Therapy (SFT) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). While both aim to improve family functioning, they differ in their focus and methods
Full Answer Section
Structural Family Therapy (SFT) emphasizes the family system's structure and organization. It identifies dysfunctional patterns and seeks to restructure the family through clear boundaries, roles, and hierarchies. While SFT acknowledges family strengths, its primary focus is on problem resolution. To incorporate a more strengths-based approach, therapists could emphasize existing family strengths as resources for change, rather than solely focusing on problem areas. This shift would empower families by validating their capabilities and building on their positive attributes. Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) focuses on solutions rather than problems. It emphasizes clients' strengths and abilities to create change. This approach aligns strongly with a strengths-based perspective. However, there's potential for improvement in addressing systemic issues within the family and community. By incorporating elements of SFT, SFBT could gain a deeper understanding of the family structure and its impact on problem-solving. By combining the strengths of both approaches, therapists can create a more holistic and effective treatment plan. A strengths-based perspective is vital in working with diverse families as it acknowledges their unique experiences, cultures, and resilience. By building on existing strengths, therapists can foster empowerment, hope, and lasting change. Reference:- de Shazer, S. (1985). Solutions: A brief guide to the solution-focused approach to therapy. W.W. Norton & Company.