Which of the following is an appropriate focus for CPSS when supporting someone?

Which of the following is an appropriate focus for CPSS when supporting someone?

• A. Identify and celebrate strengths.
• B. Focus on highlighting strengths in the person we serve.
• C. Dominate decision-making for the person we serve.
• D. Only follow staff directives.

Answer: (A)

In CPSS work, a strengths-based, recovery-focused approach guides how you support someone. Identifying and celebrating strengths helps the person see what they can rely on, which builds self-efficacy, motivation, and hope. When you name a strength—like strong coping skills, persistence through setbacks, or a helpful support network—and celebrate it, you reinforce the person’s belief in their own abilities and invite them to use those strengths to move toward their goals. This approach promotes collaboration, respect, and autonomy in the helping relationship. Dominating decision-making conflicts with the peer-support ethos and can undermine the person’s sense of ownership over their recovery. Likewise, following directives without considering the person’s preferences sidelines their voice and choice. While noticing strengths is good, actively identifying and celebrating them creates momentum, reinforces empowerment, and makes planning and goal-setting more meaningful.

In CPSS work, a strengths-based, recovery-focused approach guides how you support someone. Identifying and celebrating strengths helps the person see what they can rely on, which builds self-efficacy, motivation, and hope. When you name a strength—like strong coping skills, persistence through setbacks, or a helpful support network—and celebrate it, you reinforce the person’s belief in their own abilities and invite them to use those strengths to move toward their goals. This approach promotes collaboration, respect, and autonomy in the helping relationship.

Dominating decision-making conflicts with the peer-support ethos and can undermine the person’s sense of ownership over their recovery. Likewise, following directives without considering the person’s preferences sidelines their voice and choice. While noticing strengths is good, actively identifying and celebrating them creates momentum, reinforces empowerment, and makes planning and goal-setting more meaningful.