Strength Perspective Approach To Domestic Violence

Addressing and and validating the difficult, and often times negative, experiences of those who are battling domestic violence and abuse is crucial, and the way in which service providers do so can have a lasting impact. it is important to bear in mind the power of language and positive word choices used when approaching individuals who are confronting domestic violence. Often time they are pathologized, or portrayed as weak and unable to assist themselves (insert citation). The strength perspective approach, which is based on the development of positive psychology, attempts to shift the focus on the character strengths that survivors embody (Stephen, 2015). This feeds into building positive emotions and emotional support, which may then aids individuals develop better coping and problem-solving skills (Tugade, Fredrickson & Barrett, 2004). The strengths perspective that stems from positive psychology emphasizes that individuals have the capability to grow and change from their experiences, and ultimately further improve the quality of their well being (Stephen, 2015). Realizing and utilizing these strengths result in more positive emotions, which is one of the five pillars of Martin Seligman’s model of well being (2011). Studies

Solution-focused interventions focus on establishing solution patterns through the dialogue between the therapist and the client (Lee, 2007). One of the different types of questions that a therapist may ask is outcome questions (Lee, 2007). Outcome questions orient domestic violence survivors to the small, but observable, behaviors that can bring about positive changes to their situation (Lee, 2007). These questions are focusing on the presence of an action rather the absence of it. For example, a potential question is “Six months down