This Week's Readings Focus On The Importance Of Culture

This Weeks Readings Focus On The Importance Of The Culture Shift Th

This week’s readings focus on the importance of the ‘culture shift’ that needs to take place in our communities in order to begin an asset building initiative. Using your critical thinking skills, respond to the following questions: What do the terms ‘strength message’ and ‘strength-oriented action’ mean? What evidence do you see of this concept played out in your local school or organizational setting? What about in your community? What do you see as the predominant role of adults in your community? Are they more focused on strength or risk and deficits? Do they provide relationships and programs, or just programs? Include two or three specific actions that you consistently practice, or could immediately incorporate into your daily routine, to support a “strength-oriented action” culture. If you get stuck, you may want to refer to the “Ask Yourself These Questions First” on Tip Sheet #1 located in the required reading for the week.

Paper For Above instruction

The concept of a 'strength message' and 'strength-oriented action' is central to fostering a positive and empowering community culture. A 'strength message' refers to communication that emphasizes individuals' assets, capabilities, and potential rather than their shortcomings or vulnerabilities. It shifts the focus from deficits to possibilities, promoting confidence and resilience among community members (Ginsburg, 2015). Correspondingly, 'strength-oriented action' involves implementing behaviors and initiatives that build upon existing assets—such as nurturing talents, fostering supportive relationships, and creating opportunities for growth—rather than solely addressing problems or risks (Bryant & Shapiro, 2020).

In local educational and organizational settings, evidence of strength messages can be seen through practices that highlight student success stories, celebrate accomplishments, and encourage positive reinforcement. For example, some schools have adopted programs that recognize individual progress, regardless of setbacks, to promote a growth mindset (Dweck, 2006). In community organizations, strength-based approaches manifest in initiatives that leverage community assets, such as local leaders or cultural resources, to solve problems collaboratively. These practices demonstrate an understanding that empowering individuals and groups leads to more sustainable and meaningful change.

Within communities, adults often serve as gatekeepers of cultural norms and play a crucial role in shaping the prevailing messages. Unfortunately, many communities tend to focus more on risk, deficits, and vulnerabilities—such as delinquency, poverty, or educational gaps—rather than on assets or strengths (Higgins & McCabe, 2014). This risk-focused perspective can inadvertently undermine community resilience and self-efficacy, creating a cycle of negative labeling and disempowerment.

However, some communities are shifting towards a strength-based paradigm, emphasizing positive relationships and resource development. Adults in these communities often prioritize providing support through relationships—mentorship, active listening, and encouragement—rather than solely through programs. They recognize that fostering trust and connection is fundamental to empowering youth and adults alike. For example, community-led initiatives that focus on mentorship and peer support programs exemplify this approach by cultivating resilience and a sense of belonging (Wallerstein & Bernstein, 2019).

To support a strength-oriented culture in daily life, I can incorporate several specific actions. First, I will practice positive reinforcement by acknowledging and celebrating others’ strengths and achievements, rather than their shortcomings. Second, I will seek to build genuine relationships based on trust and understanding, ensuring that individuals feel valued and capable. Third, I plan to actively listen and ask empowering questions that encourage reflection on personal assets and past successes, fostering a mindset of growth and resilience (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2019). These actions can help reinforce a community environment where strengths are recognized and built upon daily.

References

• Bryant, M., & Shapiro, S. (2020). Asset-Based Community Development: Building Resilience through Strength-Based Approaches. Journal of Community Psychology, 48(3), 569-583.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019). Strengthening Families and Communities through Positive Engagement. CDC Publications.
• Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. Random House.
• Ginsburg, K. R. (2015). Building Resilience in Children and Youth: The Role of Supportive Relationships. Pediatrics, 135(5), 837–844.
• Higgins, D., & McCabe, M. (2014). Risk and Resilience in Community Settings: Shifting Perspectives. Community Development Journal, 49(3), 437-453.
• Wallerstein, N., & Bernstein, E. (2019). Empowerment Education: The Art of Building Communities Based on Strengths. American Journal of Community Psychology, 64(1-2), 140-152.