Signature Strengths

VIA inventory of strengths

Self-report survey for adults that measures the 24 strengths in the VIA Classification

The golden mean

Aristotle's term for describing ethical behavior as a midpoint between extremes

Underuse of strengths

When not bringing forth one's strengths during a particular situation causes a negative impact on others or oneself

Overuse of strengths

When bringing too much of one's strengths in a given situation causes a negative impact on others or oneself

Optimal use of strengths

Finding the balance between using the right strengths at the appropriate time, and with the adequate amount of intensity

Direct questioning

A strategy that practitioners can use to systematically and strategically integrate questions that revolve around underuse, optimal use, and overuse of character strengths into discussions with clients.

AEA

The Aware-Explore-Apply model. First, one breaks their strengths blindness. Next, one explores their strengths in terms of past, future, and present use. Lastly, one gathers their learning and insights from the prior phases and applies what they learned.

Mindfulness

The process by which individuals are able to see the context, notice the dynamics of the people in it, and not only be aware of character strengths but to bring them forth strongly and in an optimal way.

Phronesis

Practical wisdom that involves managing the imbalance of virtues such that one does not turn to vices.

Strengths-spotting

The process of the labeling of character strengths that are observed in someone along with rationale of description as to how the strength is being seen in action.

Feedback from others

The process of receiving insights from others in regards to one's own strengths and weaknesses so as to learn how to improve one's management of them.

The tempering effect

The use of one character strength to temper or manage an overused strength. Using a balance-oriented strength to lower the use of an overused signature strength.

The towing effect

The boosting up of a strength with a higher strength ---to bring along the underused strength along for the ride so as to enhance it.

Wisdom & Knowledge

One of the 6 key virtues, describes strengths that help you gather and use knowledge. Creativity, curiosity, open-mindedness, love of learning, perspective

Courage

One of the 6 key virtues, describes strengths that help you exercise your will and face adversity. Bravery, persistence, vitality (zest), integrity

Humanity

One of the 6 key virtues, describes strengths that manifest in caring relationships with others. Love, kindness, social intelligence

Justice

One of the 6 key virtues, describes strengths that help you connect in community or group-based situations. Being an active citizen 9socially responsible), fairness, leadership

Temperance

One of the 6 key virtues, describes strengths that help you manage habits and protect against excess. Forgiveness & mercy, humility & modesty, prudence, self-regulation & self-control

Transcendence

One of the 6 key virtues, describes strengths that help you connect to the larger universe and provide meaning. Appreciation of beauty & excellence, gratitude, hope, humor & playfulness, spirituality