Strength-Based Psychology Paper

Strength based psychology is a relatively new form of psychological training and behavior modification strategy originally developed by Donald Clifton. His approach valued identification and maximization of an individual’s strengths instead of the traditional approach of identifying and minimizing weaknesses. To wit: “At its fundamentally flawed core, the aim if almost any learning program is to help us become who we are not (Rath, 2007, p. 3).” According to Welch, Grossaint, Reid, and Walker (2014), the use of strength finding assessment provide insight and awareness into an individual’s own thoughts and behavior improved leadership based on four critical themes was obtained throughout an organization even without the individuals realizing the changes they were exhibiting. Thus, the subjects effectively became more adept at being themselves, developing and using their own recognized strengths. Using the StrengthFinder assessment tool developed by Gallup, a 174 question self-assessment tool to identify the individuals thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors, the pattern of answers allows for identification of 34 behavioral themes or talents. The results …show more content…
Individuals who identify with the learner strength find that they are excited and driven to learn new information or skills. Strategies for developing the learner theme include identifying the learning style or styles that are appropriate for the individual and identifying what types of information or skills the individual is most interested in learning, specifically whether the learner is most concerned with knowledge or technical ability or skills. Organizationally, the learner can use their ability in the capacity of a super user or early adopter of new or changing processes or procedures. Many individuals may be intimidated by this process, and the learner leadership quality can help alleviate team members anxieties and fears by helping mediate new information or processes (Rath,