Using the strengths perspective in the social work interview with young adults who have experienced childhood sexual abuse

Social work has a long history of problematizing and pathologizing clients, including young adults who have experienced childhood sexual abuse (CSA). Traditional approaches in social work have focused on working with clients to overcome obstacles, solve problems that stand in their way, and connect clients with resources that they do not possess. Strengths-focused social work interviewing offers an opportunity to reframe the experiences of young adults who have experienced CSA. While there is a gap in the literature on strengths-focused work with young adults who have experienced CSA, we propose that the strengths-focused interview offers an effective shift in thinking for social workers through the use of environmental support, exception, and possibility questions. We conclude that the profession best serves clients when we discover and use strengths, assets, and resources, rather than focusing on problems.