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Strength Based Approach 

Understanding and Responding to Students with Emotional & Behavioral Challenges Using a Positive, Trauma-informed,  Strength-Based Approach & Creating a Positive, Strength-Based Culture in Your School

J6 focuses on Strength Based Approach 

Strength-based practice is an emerging approach to guiding students and, in particular, those with emotional and behavioral challenges,  that is exceptionally positive and inspiring. Its focus is on strength-building rather than flaw-fixing. It begins with the belief that every young person has or can develop strengths and utilize past successes to mitigate problem behavior and enhance academic and social functioning.

Key Topics:

    • Focus on students' strengths and abilities rather than their problems.

    • Foster a positive environment to encourage growth and resilience.

    • Understand how trauma affects the brain and how positive experiences can help repair and heal.

    • Avoid harmful labels that can discourage students and replace them with positive interpretations to inspire growth.

  • Use methods like:

    • Reframing: Turn negatives into positives (e.g., “lazy” to “good at protecting themselves”).

    • Solution-Focused Questions: Ask about what’s working or possible solutions.

    • Positive Predicting: Encourage students to imagine a successful future.

    • Inspirational Metaphors: Use creative comparisons to motivate and uplift.

    • Engage students in activities that build confidence, especially for those who are at-risk.

    • Provide strategies for students who struggle to adapt to new situations or ideas.

    • Work closely with families to create a supportive network for the student.

    • Know when and how to use rewards to encourage positive behavior.

    • Teachers must regulate their emotions first to effectively guide students.

    • Use boundaries that build relationships rather than break them.

    • Use innovative methods to help students think and act in positive ways.

  • Instead of focusing on negative traits, turn them into strengths:

    • Obnoxious → Good at keeping people away when needed.

    • Rude or arrogant → Skilled at impacting others’ emotions.

    • Resistant → Careful and cautious.

    • Lazy or uninvested → Protecting themselves from hurt or failure.

    • Manipulative → Creative in meeting their needs.

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