Motivation and emotion/Book/2024/Values in action framework of strengths

Leading With Strength: The Values in Action (VIA) Framework
Understanding and implementing the VIA Framework?

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Overview

The Values in Action (VIA) framework was developed in 2004 by Dr. Christopher Peterson and Dr. Martin Seligman as a system for classifying positive traits to maximise personal functioning. The Framework categorises 24 distinctive character strengths six overarching factors that give individuals an organised way to achieve growth, primarily in personal, professional, or educational contexts.

What is the VIA Framework?

What is the VIA Framework?

The VIA Framework is a psychometrically sound tool measuring 24 character strengths that can be developed to gain higher levels of well-being. Constructed to counter a dysfunctional guide to mental illness in psychology – namely the DSM – the VIA Framework focuses on positive and rewarding human traits. Thus, behaviour is directed toward strengthening positive attributes, in contrast to minimising and managing deficits or negative attributes.

Theoretical Foundations

The VIA Framework is deeply rooted in the most noble endeavours of psychological science and ancient philosophy. Aristotle's school of virtue-based ethics, for instance, has laid the groundwork on which Virtue Ethics drew extensively from — virtues such as wisdom, courage and temperance helped individuals flourish in how they lead a good life (Aristotle, 1925/350 B.C.E.; Hursthouse & Pettigrove, 2023). The Framework was designed to enable favourable actions, as articulated by its founders Martin Seligman and Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, and promote the divergence from curing mental illness to nourishing physical and psychological health (Seligman 2018). To further enhance the Frameworks validity, the VIA scales are based on the humanistic approach, specifically Maslow's (1970) self-actualisation and Rogers' (1961) focus on actualisation and personal growth. Thus, the VIA Framework pulls various aspects of these schools of thought together to provide a single holistic Framework guiding individual’s on how to function at their best while remaining connected with their community, environment, and personal values.

Background

While classic psychology had intended to detect and remedy human frailty — that is, repairing what was wrong in the mind—by the late 1990s Seligman and Christopher Peterson were turning psychology upside down. They wanted to create a classification system for positive human attributes—an analogue to the DSM—to provide an evidence-based, strengths-based model that could be used by research and clinical professionals around the world.

By researching and blending ideas from philosophical, psychological, and moral traditions from across several millennia, Seligman and Peterson were able to identify 24 character strengths that had withstood the test of time, and factored these into six core virtues to establish the Framework. The core values were derived from universal moral principles, which are identifiable across a variety of cultures and philosophical tenets — including ancient Greek philosophy and Confucian ethics (Aristotle, 1925/350 B.C.E.; Confucius, 1971). These six virtues appeared repeatedly in the human experience by way of both historical and philosophical texts, which often stated that they were the very backbone of leading a fulfilling life. These traits have been empirically demonstrated to meet the modern standards for both reliability and validity (Peterson & Seligman, 2004).

Why We Need the VIA Framework

One of Peterson & Seligman valid criticisms was that many psychological models—particularly those based on a diagnosis and cure model—are not well-suited for helping everyday people thrive. As a result, they developed the Values in Action (VIA) Framework. Psychologically speaking, the tendency to focus on what is wrong with people has manifested from a long history of mental health research moving towards models like the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), categorising mental health disorders to be treated systematically. While useful for the conceptualisation and remediation of psychopathology, this deficit approach has been criticised for too often neglecting the positive characteristics in people that can be engaged to promote optimal human functioning and resilience (Peterson & Seligman, 2004). Additionally, where one is focused on their negative attributes, it is easy to lose focus on the positive aspects of life, resulting in potentially unnecessary suffering.

The VIA Framework was grown out of this hole, so to speak, and filled a gap for a scientifically validated strengths-based to contrast with the deficit-focused pathology view. The VIA Framework enables recognition of character strengths that are identified as universally valued and morally significant (Peterson & Seligman, 2004), serving to organise the development and assessment of these qualities. Additionally, the VIA Framework addressed the call for a universal strength list relevant to diverse populations and settings, fostering global applications of well-being (McGrath & MacMahon, 2015; Niemiec, 2013). This universality makes an inclusive view of human talent which can be utilised to both the Western and non-Western societies (Zhang & Chen, 2018).

The VIA Framework also works to advance holistic conceptions of well-being that align with the goals of positive psychology. Research studies demonstrate that the use of character strengths, such as hope, courage, and curiosity, is strongly associated with positive life outcomes, such as increased life satisfaction and well-being (Peterson et al., 2007; Ruch et al., 2010; Proyer et al., 2011; Blasco-Belled et al., 2018). Shifting the emphasis from repairing weaknesses to enhancing strengths has opened new opportunities for intervention beyond simply alleviating human suffering by giving form to positive human qualities that enable flourishing (Cherif et al., 2020; Smith et al., 2020).

Key Components

24-character strengths fall under six core virtues in the VIA Framework.

• Wisdom and Knowledge: Cognitive strengths in acquiring and applying knowledge.
  • Creativity: Thinking of innovative and productive ways to approach tasks.
  • Curiosity: Eagerness to explore and take interest in ongoing experiences.
  • Judgement: Thoroughly examining issues from multiple perspectives.
  • Learning: Gaining mastery in new skills, subjects, and knowledge areas.
  • Perspective: Offering wise advice and seeing the broader picture.
• Courage: Emotional strengths involving the willpower to achieve goals despite challenges.
  • Bravery: Facing risks, challenges, and dangers with courage and determination.
  • Perseverance: Continuing tasks despite facing obstacles and difficulties.
  • Honesty: Being genuine, authentic, and truthful in thoughts and actions.
  • Zest: Approaching life with enthusiasm and energy.
• Humanity: Interpersonal strengths that emphasise caring for and liking others.
  • Love: Valuing close and meaningful relationships with others.
  • Kindness: Doing good for others, often through altruism.
  • Social Intelligence: Being attuned to the motives and emotions of others.
• Justice: Civic strengths that promote healthy community involvement.
  • Teamwork: Collaborating effectively as part of a group.
  • Fairness: Treating all people equitably and justly.
  • Leadership: Organising group activities and ensuring they are accomplished.
• Temperance: Strengths that help manage and avoid excess.
  • Forgiveness: Letting go of resentment towards those who have wronged you.
  • Humility: Allowing achievements to speak for themselves without boasting.
  • Prudence: Making careful, cautious decisions and avoiding unnecessary risks.
  • Self-Regulation: Exercising control over one's emotions and actions.
• Transcendence: Strengths that connect an individual to something greater than themselves, providing purpose and meaning.
  • Appreciation of Beauty and Excellence: Recognising and valuing beauty, excellence, and skilled performance.
  • Gratitude: Being thankful and appreciative of positive aspects of life.
  • Hope: Maintaining a positive outlook and striving for the best outcomes.
  • Humour: Enjoying laughter and bringing joy to others.
  • Spirituality: Having coherent beliefs about a higher purpose and meaning in life.

Measurement

To give you an understanding of how strong each of your strengths are, the VIA Survey – a psychometrically sound self-report instrument – measures the 24 strengths and is used to assist individuals develop, live in alignment with their values, and ensuring a meaningful and rich life.

Test Your Knowledge

What is the primary purpose of the VIA Framework?

	To classify positive human strengths
	To diagnose mental illnesses
	To provide a list of job skills
	To create a personal legacy

Application & Benefits

The VIA has been implemented in a variety of domains — such as in education and organisational development — to align individuals with roles and outcomes that are congruent with their strengths, enabling success in promoting human flourishing (Niemiec & McGrath, 2019; Wagner et al., 2019).

Self-Actualisation & Personal Growth

VIA Framework is an especially useful tool for personal development by increasing self-awareness and the utilisation of strengths. New data also indicates that the VIA may be beneficial in personalised positive psychology interventions (PPIs), which are therapeutic techniques tailored to focus on an individual’s unique strengths, needs, and preferences. For instance, the study by Heintzelman, Kushlev & Diener (2023) found that strength-based choices within personalised PPIs correlated with augmented positive affect and weakness-based choice had the opposite. Consequently, we need to ensure that PPIs match an individual's strengths to optimise subjective well-being. For example, research conducted by Blasco-Belled et al. (2018) and Baumann et al. (2019) suggest that the utilisation of character strength predicts life satisfaction. Similarly, Smith et al. (2020) discovered that interventions applying aspects of character strengths from positive psychology were effective in promoting students' happiness and well-being. Finally, in an exhaustive meta-analysis, Carr et al (2023), found “PPIs had a significant small to medium effect on wellbeing, QoL, strengths, depression, anxiety, and stress. Gains were partially maintained at 7.5 months follow-up. Mind-body PPIs such as yoga were particularly effective. Individuals who engaged in longer, face-to-face programs benefited most.” In other words, PPIs have an extensive evidence base supporting their effectiveness.

Professional Environment

The VIA Framework enables the identification and utilisation of character strengths already present within employees, allowing you to organise work around these. For example, Harzer and Ruch (2016) found that employees who used their character strengths at work reported higher levels of job satisfaction and meaning in their jobs. Similarly, Dubord et al. (2022) showed positive effects in improving well-being and motivation. Such findings parallel the self-determination theory, in which meeting these psychological needs for autonomy, competence and relatedness gives rise to higher motivation levels and well-being. Additionally, Meyers and van Woerkom (2011) emphasised the crucial role of strengths use in workplace— publishing evidence showing that when employees were encouraged to apply their strengths and virtues, job satisfaction improved, as well as team cooperation.

These results imply that organisations may be successful in boosting employee well-being, as well as constructing a positive organisational culture, by targeting strengths-related interventions.

Educational Context

When part of the educational curriculum, the use of VIA Framework as intervention tools can engage students more effectively. In their work, Corp et al. (2014) identified that strengths-based classrooms are correlated with increased student behaviour and academic results. Koch et al. (2020) and Kumar, Bakhshi, and Singh (2020) further proved that college students who were encouraged to utilise their character strengths had heightened well-being and group membership fulfillment.

Structured interventions in Green (2021) that found focusing on character strengths within oneself and others resulted in greater well-being across many dimensions, e.g. more positive emotions/engagement. Adding to the depth of this picture, Gander et al. (2021) found that character strengths, unless utilised consistently, were related to less competence, self-efficacy, and an endorsement of desirable life outcomes. Based on these results, it is proposed that the inclusion of VIA strengths in an educational setting could promote student development by enhancing their cognitive as well as emotional selves. Similarly, Smith et al. (2020) found that supporting the promise that strengths-based education will make students happy and healthy and had effects on improving peer interactions as much as it improved well-being for a positive learning environment.

There are, however, some constraints that prevent us from implementing strengths-based interventions in educational scenarios. These interventions may be time or training-intensive, which can serve as a barrier to effective. Additionally, students might respond differently to the strengths-based literature, with some requiring “more time” (Green 2021).

Case study The implementation of the VIA Framework in schools can significantly enhance student engagement and moral development. For example, Huang, Pagano, and Marengo (2024) investigated the introduction of a Values-Based Education for Sustainable Development (VbESD) framework in primary education by integrating principles from the VIA Framework and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Their study, involving 157 educators and students, found that combining VIA principles with sustainability education boosted student engagement, emotional intelligence, and academic performance. Structured, character strengths-based learning not only promotes academic success but also encourages personal growth. The VIA Framework provides a structured approach to fostering character strengths, aligning its 24 strengths with roles in which individuals can excel. For instance, in a school-wide recycling initiative, students with strong leadership skills coordinated efforts, those with teamwork strengths managed logistics, and students high in perseverance tracked progress. This made sustainability more engaging and relevant to students, allowing them to internalise responsibility and apply their strengths to real-world problems, thus building character. However, the study also revealed some challenges. Some educators resisted the additional time and training required to integrate the VIA Framework into the existing curriculum. The focus on sustainability activities sometimes detracted from traditional academic subjects, which concerned some teachers. Additionally, students responded differently to the character-based approach, with some needing more time to adjust to the new focus on values. These challenges must be considered when implementing the framework in other settings. Despite these drawbacks, the combination of VIA strengths with sustainability goals provides a holistic approach to education, balancing academic achievement with personal development. Students showed improved academic performance and developed stronger relationships with peers by applying their character strengths in practical, community-based projects. The VIA Framework fosters values such as respect, perspective, and teamwork, preparing students to become responsible global citizens. However, successful implementation requires careful balancing of curriculum priorities and additional support for educators. Huang, R.X., Pagano, A., & Marengo, A. (2024). Values-based education for sustainable development (VbESD): Introducing a pedagogical framework for education for sustainable development (ESD) using a values-based education (VbE) approach. Sustainability, 16(9), 3562. https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093562

Cultural Considerations

The VIA Framework represents benefits that flow from historically and culturally familiar positive human values, but it must be culturally adapted to work. In 2015 McGrath highlighted that we need to acknowledge that cultural perspectives might appraise character strengths differently and he therefore underlines the need for adapting the VIA classification of character strengths to diverse cultures. For example, Khosravi et al. (2021) applied VIA character strengths intervention to an Iranian context and found significant improvements in life satisfaction, decreases in negative emotions, as well as better utilisation of strengths of courage, humanity, and transcendence. Though, in contrast, Huber, Webb & Höfer (2017) adapted and reconciled the VIA Inventory of Strengths for participants located in German-speaking countries so that the VIA Framework made sense for each of them culturally. In another example by Zhang & Chen (2018), assessed the impact of culturally adapted use of the VIA to explore the relationship between character strengths utilisation and well-being among Chinese university students, finding that cultural-adapted interventions are more effective in increasing the exploitation level of character strengths.

These examples serve as a reminder that while the core virtues in the VIA Model may hold universal relevance, being mindful of cultural differences when applying and assessing character strengths is crucial for desirable outcomes to emerge.

VIA vs DSM?

Comparison: VIA vs DSM

The VIA (Values in Action) Framework and the DSM (Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) respond to mental health from opposite perspectives. The VIA Framework is a positive, strengths-based lens that looks at how we can identify and boost our positive strategies for improving our lives (e.g., creativity, hope, and perseverance). It is all about human development, self-improvement and maintaining overall well-being. In stark contrast the DSM is a diagnostic compendium broadly utilised for the sole purpose of identifying and categorising abnormal mental states necessitating clinical intervention.

At least in part, the VIA comes out of a response to focus on pathology approaches like the DSM (Peterson & Seligman, 2004). By virtue, in the DSM-5, there is a diagnostic focus on where things have gone wrong, but not on strength building or character development. Therefore, the VIA was developed to respond to this with an evidence-based methodology for mapping character strengths that contribute positively to resilience and thriving.

The VIA and the DSM are vastly different mechanisms for mental health evaluations, but they can be combined creatively to provide a view of mental life that is full, including both its sunlight themes and shadows. Practitioners can utilise a combined approach of the DSM to identify dysfunctions and the VIA to amplify individual strengths to develop complete therapeutic strategies addressing those suffering from mental disorders as well as encouraging positive qualities (Seligman, 2018). This dual approach is especially helpful in the formation of targeted intervention plans to manage deficits and promote attributes, improving mental health results as a result.

For instance, One study by Seligman et al. (2005) found that when providers used a strengths-focused approach in combination with their traditional deficit-based treatment, consumers had lowered symptoms and improved life satisfaction and overall well-being. Moreover, it is more balanced and durable to encourage the integration, concentrating on what individuals can do instead of how an analysis informs them. Such an approach is truly integrated and has the potential to be destigmatising by reframing mental health treatment from pathology to possibility.

Test Your Knowledge

How does the VIA Framework complement the DSM?

	By diagnosing mental illnesses
	By providing medication plans
	By focusing on positive traits and strengths
	By outlining physical exercises

Conclusion

The VIA Values in Action (VIA) Framework has transformed the field of psychology by moving it away from a pathology-based (and deficit oriented) approach to an empathy-based approach, emphasising living a moral life focused on character strengths and virtues. Developed by Dr Christopher Peterson and Dr Martin Seligman, the VIA Framework promotes positive psychology through a strength-based assessment of character strengths that support individual growth, resilience and flourishing in personal, professional, and academic domains. The Framework sorts 24 character strengths under six core virtues, offering an empirical model to understand, assess, and develop these strengths, providing a structured and holistic system for enhancing well-being.

The VIA Framework is applicable to many domains. The VIA has been instrumental in the field of personal development and is used by practitioners as well as individuals to discover and develop their Signature Strengths, enabling them to live a more fulfilling and satisfying life. In professional settings, organisations have utilised the Framework to match employee strengths with job requirements and trainings with phenomenal results in terms of employee motivation, job satisfaction and workplace culture. The work of other institutions and independent educators, who have incorporated the VIA Framework into the curriculum at school- or university-levels, has shown an improvement in student engagement, academic performance, and emotional well-being even with greater time-burden implemented by extra training.

The VIA Framework has demonstrated its cross-cultural applicability and usefulness among various populations and environments, highlighting the importance of culturally appropriate usage. Studies in various parts of the world have demonstrated that culturally adjusted and fortified strengths-based formulation enhance well-being, life satisfaction, and strength use (e. g., personal growth). In this sense, the cultural adaptability of the Framework aligns with one of the core aims of its development: to specify a universal reference model suitable for practical use in diverse communities, meaning it would be applicable to both Western and non-Western societies.

A particularly relevant factor to highlight is the divergence of the VIA Framework away from traditional pathology-driven models, such as DSM, which focused primarily on classifying mental disorders. The DSM remains vital for identifying dysfunctions; however, the VIA compliments it with an alternative point of view, one that focuses on enhancing what is good in people and strengthening those aspects. From both a clinical and self-management perspective, this strengths-based approach combined with the deficit model of the DSM presents a balanced method that would empower individuals to have a more wholistic and sustainable path of mental health maintenance.

Future research in the field of human strengths should investigate its cross-cultural relevance and its long-term outcomes in terms of well-being. Previous studies have explored the benefits of culturally adapted strengths-based interventions; however, it is important to further explore how strengths can be made meaningful under diverse cultural and social contexts with an intention on making the VIA Framework universally relevant. Well-being improvements induced by these strengths-based interventions need to be assessed for sustainability over time, which requires longitudinal studies. Moreover, integrating the VIA Framework with other psychological models such as the DSM may create a more holistic mental health system where diagnoses and pathologies are considered together with balanced attention to positive and negative qualities. The application of future studies may be able to achieve a more holistic and balanced healthcare system, capable of meeting the needs of entire populations based on individual profiles, especially if they examine personalised applications and integration of character strengths into classical therapeutic methods. Further research is vital in refining the VIA Framework efficacy and applicability to ensure that this valuable tool for spreading human flourishing works across a variety of populations.

The VIA Framework is a positive psychology pathway that offers another way of being in the world, creating inner strength to face life shining brighter light on who we are opposed to attempting to fix what is broken. It promotes a preventive, positive approach to mental health care in order to make more people flourish, form more cohesive communities and produce better-functioning workplaces

In short, instead of deficit focused, the VIA has been able to emphasis positive pathways unique and novel to the field of psychology. The well-being theory highlights the importance of developing character strengths and virtues as a key to leading fulfilling lives, growing as individuals, being resilient and flourishing in the different realms of our existence — personal, professional, and academic. The VIA’s cultural neutrality and ability to integrate with the DSM highlights the versatility and applicability of the VIA Framework across diverse contexts By embracing an empathetic, proactive approach to mental health and personal development, the VIA Framework aims to make people flourish, foster cohesive communities, and create more effective workplaces, contributing meaningfully to a more balanced and holistic understanding of human well-being. More research and development is needed, however, to harness the full potential of the approach, ultimately contributing towards a more positive & resilient society.

See also

• Values in Action Inventory of Strengths (Wikipedia)

References

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