Family-centered positive psychology: A framework for research-based practices

Family-centered positive psychology is a framework for working with children and families that promotes strengths and builds capacity within individuals and systems. As an extension, family-centered services (FCS) focus on assessing family needs and supporting family goals using a strengths-based approach rather than a deficit-focused approach. In this chapter, we will provide a definition and description of the guiding principles associated with family-centered services. Two interventions aimed at building family strengths through collaborative family partnership models are the Getting Ready intervention and Conjoint Behavioral Consultation. These interventions and their research bases are described. Future research directions are presented, as understanding which components of family-centered services are most efficacious will influence the design and implementation of family-centered service delivery.