• Abstract
• Introduction
• Assessing Strengths: Using the BERS
  • Jake
• Assessment Results
• Intervention and Treatment Planning
• Summary
• Conclusion
• About the Authors
• References

At the treatment center, clinical staff conducted a comprehensive psychological evaluation. As part of the evaluation, Jake’s therapist completed the BERS in an effort to identify Jake’s personal strengths. It was anticipated that this information would be useful in identifying what is going well in Jake’s life, documenting competencies that Jake had mastered, and identifying resources that would support Jake and his family in the community. Overall, the information would be useful in developing a comprehensive life plan for Jake and his family. Jake‘s subscale scores on the BERS are described in Table 1.

Table 1.  BERS Subscale Scores for Jake

Jake demonstrated competence based on above-average subscale scores in the areas of Intrapersonal Strength and School Functioning. The Intrapersonal Strength dimension broadly assessed Jake’s outlook on his competence and accomplishments. Jake’s score reflected specific item responses such as his ability to identify personal strengths, his popularity with peers, his ability to enjoy a hobby, and his age-appropriate hygiene skills. Jake also was rated highly in the area of School Functioning, which measured his level of competence in school. His score indicated that he completed homework regularly, used note taking and listening skills in school and demonstrated an aptitude for performing at or above grade level in reading and math.

Conversely, fewer strengths were perceived in the areas of Interpersonal Strength, Family Involvement, and Affective Strength. The Interpersonal Strength dimension revealed Jake experienced difficulty controlling his emotions and/or behaviors in social situations. Jake had limited skill development in his ability to manage anger, react to disappointments calmly, and consider the consequences of his behavior. Jake’s Family Involvement subscale score, reflected a minimal level of communication and involvement with family members. On the Affective Strength subscale, Jake scored below average based on the difficulty he had accepting affection from others and expressing feelings.

Jake’s therapist was able to identify several other strengths through the open-ended question portion of the BERS. Jake's favorite hobbies included drawing, skiing, and mountain biking. He enjoyed playing the guitar and participated in several community league sports, including basketball and baseball. Jake also had a couple of close friends, a positive relationship with his grandparents, and a supportive math teacher.

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