Characteristics of Good

Assessment
Asset-Based versus Traditional
Approaches
 Traditional Approach
 Focuses on problems
 Assigns blame
 Reactive
 Heavy reliance on professionals
 Views the consumer and problem as the
same
 Traditional Approach
 Crisis management approach
 Competition among social service
providers
 Heavy reliance on public funding
 Treats problems as unchangeable
 Asset-Based Approach
 Focuses on strengths of consumer and
informal support system
 Emphasizes personal responsibility and
capacity to make a difference
 Proactive (explores innovative ways of
service provision)
 Asset-Based Approach
 Focuses on mobilizing individuals, families
(nuclear and extended), and all
appropriate community resources
 Vision building perspective
 Cooperation among all stakeholders
 Views consumer as a resource
 Asset-Based Approach
 Focuses public resources on areas of
greatest need

 Belief that change is possible and focuses

on change goals