The strength-based approach is well-established, as there is an extensive amount of theoretical and empirical literature that discusses it. The approach is defined as “a collaborative process between the person supported by services and those supporting them, allowing them to work together to determine an outcome that draws on the person’s strengths and assets” (Caiels et al., 2021, p. 19). The central problem associated with using the approach is that it does not provide clear instructions about how it should be used. In other words, the strength-based approach is seen as a philosophical standpoint, which may be difficult to transform into actual practice (Caiels et al., 2021). At the same time, the approach is dangerous for some clients, as some of them are reliant on the help of others, such older generation or people with disabilities (Caiels et al., 2021). These people cannot rely on their strengths, as they need other people to care for them, which is against the central principles of the strength-based approach.
As an advanced human service professional, I will acknowledge these limitations of the strength-based approach. In particular, I will try to learn practical evidence and specific interventions I can use to address my clients’ problems. Additionally, I will use the strength-based approach to those populations that can benefit from them, such as younger adults.
Reference
Caiels, J., Milne, A., & Beadle-Brown, J. (2021). Taking a strengths-based approach to social work and social care: A literature review. PERU. Web.