A Strength-Based Approach to Assessing Domestic Violence

A Strength-Based Approach to assessing domestic violence provides a foundational framework for professionals in Child Welfare and Adult Services. This course examines the impact of domestic violence on child safety, caregiver and household functioning and the well‑being of vulnerable older adults. Through guided discussion and critical analysis, the trainer supports participants in applying best practices that avoid victim‑blaming and maintain a clear focus on identifying the individual responsible for causing harm.

Recognizing that survivors are already taking protective actions, effective engagement is essential to fostering partnership and trust. The overarching goal is for Child Welfare and Adult Services staff to develop a shared practice framework for assessing, discussing, documenting and engaging families experiencing domestic violence.

Learning Objectives

By the ending of this training, participants will be able to:

• Identify three domestic violence best practice values that shift away from the traditional “failure to protect” culture toward a family centered culture.

• Define domestic violence in the context of various Health and Human Services systems to develop shared best practices for engaging families in our communities.

• Understand implicit bias and solution-focused strategies for engaging survivors and perpetrators experiencing domestic violence.
• Utilize tools used to identify perpetrator behaviors that impact the adult survivor, household functioning and children.