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Using Strength-Based Approaches to Explore Pretreatment Change in Men Who Abuse Their Partners

Susan Eckerle Curwood, Ian DeGeer, Peter Hymmen and Peter Lehmann

The article describes a study where a sample of men who abuse their partners discuss the values, goals, and perceived benefits of being arrested.  Goals related to self-improvement, relationships, and commitment to family form the foundation from which strengths based counseling are applied.    Perceptions of men who abuse their partners and their willingness to change are challenged through the research study.   Alternative ways of acting, reacting, and being are emphasized through the approach that the study examines. 

1. From the article, how do the stages of change build upon the identification and reflection upon one’s strengths?
2. How can an examination of strengths assist men who abuse their partners in repairing and strengthening relationships?
3. Describe some of the limitations of the study, particularly as related to the identification of the sample of men participating in the study?

The Strength-Based Counseling Model

Elsie J. Smith

The article proposes a model of applying a strength-based counseling approach to working with at-risk youth.  A case example is included with reference to protective and risk factors, as well as ethical considerations in applying a strengths-based counseling approach. 

1. The article asserts that strengths-based counseling represents a paradigm shift within the field of psychology.  What is meant by this paradigm shift?
2. How does a strength-based counseling approach intersect with narrative therapy and solution focused therapy?
3. Select a counseling topic (other than at-risk youth) and apply the 10 stages of strengths-based counseling that are described in this article.  What is missing, if anything, from these stages?