Ecological Framework And Strengths-Based Approach

THEORETCAL FRAMEWORK
The research project was directed by two theoretical perspectives with an emphasis on empowerment. It was regarded through the lenses of the ecological framework and a strengths-based perspective. In the proceeding paragraphs, each theory was discussed and then an explanation was provided of how each theory was applicable to this research.
The ecological framework is sometimes referred to as the ecosystems perspective; however, both concepts were generally alike and sought to answer the same question: How does one’s environment affect their behaviour in any given situation? This perspective puts the responsibility on gaps between persons and environments, rather than just on the environment alone or by simply labelling

Using a strengths perspective kept the skills and the potential of each caregiver at the forefront (Miley et al., 2011). Focusing on the unique strengths of each caregiver helped individualize plans or interventions that could build on a person’s positive characteristics and provided potential for growth.
The ecological framework and the strengths perspective complemented one another. “Because human beings naturally evolve to work in harmony with their environments, it was likely that client systems were actually doing a lot right” (Miley et al., 2011). By focusing on existing strengths within caregivers, practices or mind-sets that were not effective while caregiving would be eliminated.
Miley et al. (2011) stated that when the inherent mental, physical, emotional, social, and spiritual abilities of individuals were supported, positive growth could occur. Using the strengths perspective allowed individuals and social workers to focus on what was going well in the present to determine what resources or positive characteristics could be used to better the future. (Miley et al,