What does the strengths perspective in social work focus on?

The strengths perspective in social work emphasizes identifying and leveraging the strengths and resources of clients. This approach is rooted in the belief that every individual possesses inherent capabilities and resilience, which can be mobilized to effect positive change in their lives. By focusing on these strengths, social workers foster a sense of empowerment and agency within clients, encouraging them to utilize their personal and community resources to overcome challenges.

This perspective challenges the traditional deficit model, which often highlights deficiencies and problems rather than acknowledging what clients can do or have already achieved. By adopting a strengths-based approach, social workers aim to build on existing competencies and foster solutions that are drawn from the clients' unique experiences and capacities. This not only enhances the therapeutic relationship but also fosters hope and motivation for clients to pursue their goals actively.

Promoting individual strengths aligns with a holistic view of social work practice that respects and builds upon the client's lived experiences, making it a foundational concept in contemporary social work.