What type of assessment does NOT focus on individual deficits?

A strength-based assessment is focused on identifying and leveraging the strengths, assets, and resources of an individual rather than highlighting their deficits or weaknesses. This type of assessment emphasizes what the individual does well, which can be beneficial in a school setting where promoting resilience and positive self-concept is crucial for student development.

In a strength-based approach, the emphasis is on the potential for growth and improvement by utilizing existing skills and talents, which encourages a positive view of the individual’s situation. This type of assessment is often used to foster healthy relationships and build confidence in students, which can be particularly important in social work contexts.

On the other hand, a deficit-based assessment primarily identifies problems and weaknesses, often marking a more negative approach. Standardized testing is designed to evaluate performance against a set standard, which can also lend itself to focusing on what is lacking. Comparative assessments analyze performance relative to peers, thus inherently highlighting differences that can be perceived as deficits. All these other types of assessment do not prioritize strengths, making the strength-based assessment distinct in its approach.