Strength-based Approach (1)

I had previously posted likely about 2 posts on the strength-based approach - one in relation to ADHD and the other on Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences.

At a recent talk, I had mentioned the strength-based approach as one of the 2 key principles of supporting students including those with SEN. There wasn't much time to elaborate on it. Since we live in an information dense world, a fun challenge for myself is to post bite-size information on this topic.

A strength-based approach is not new but I guess with the recent topic on inclusion, special needs and mental health, the strength-based approach has somewhat reared its head again.

A strength-based approach is also widely used in the social service and medical services sector but it is known by another name - person-centered care - which basically is about putting the person first or being person-centric (the equivalent of learner-centricity in education). Interestingly, in the counselling world, person-centered therapy (PCT) proposed by Carl Rogers is one of the humanistic therapies that distinguished itself from psychodynamic approaches. Roger believed that people had the potential and desire for growth and development.

In PCT, the therapist-client relationship is critical forming the foundation and the conduit in which the growth of the client happens. The relationship has several characteristics:

1) congruence - therapist is genuine and aware of their own thoughts and feelings.

2) unconditional positive regard - therapist do not judge the client or their experiences.

3) empathy for the client - recognise and understand the client's emotional experiences without being entangled in it.

How similar is the equivalent relationship in the classroom? Watch for the next post!

#strengthbased

#personcentred

#inclusion