Submitted to: Dr.

Zubaida

Submitted by: Emman (717), Asma (712)

Topic of presentation: Values in Action (VIA)

 Values in action

Before you can ‘walk the talk,’ you have to clearly know what the ‘talk’ is.”

JIM KOUZES & BARRY POSNER

1. Introduction

Values in Action (VIA) is a framework developed to identify and classify positive human

strengths that contribute to individual and collective well-being. Introduced by psychologists

Christopher Peterson and Martin Seligman in 2004 as part of the field of positive psychology,

the VIA classification aims to shift psychological research and practice from focusing solely

on mental illness to also exploring human potential, virtues, and strengths.

Unlike traditional psychological models that emphasize deficits and disorders, the VIA

approach is strength-based.

One of the unique aspects of the VIA framework is its focus on what is right with

people, in contrast to traditional psychological models that focus on diagnosing and

treating dysfunction. It offers practical applications in diverse settings, including

education, workplace development, therapy, coaching, and community building. For

example, in education, VIA helps foster students’ social and emotional learning; in

workplaces, it aids in employee engagement and leadership development.

Moreover, the VIA Inventory of Strengths (VIA-IS), a free psychometric assessment

tool, allows individuals to discover their signature strengths—those strengths that

are most central to their identity and used most frequently. Research suggests that
 regularly using one's signature strengths in new and meaningful ways leads to greater

happiness, reduced depression, and enhanced well-being.

The VIA framework is widely used in education, counselling, organizational

leadership, and personal development. It helps individuals recognize their own

strengths, build on them, and use them in various aspects of life—from relationships

to careers to personal growth. It is also a valuable tool for fostering resilience,

enhancing motivation, and promoting positive behaviour change.

Traditional psychology focused on diagnosing and treating mental illnesses. However,

positive psychology, pioneered by Martin Seligman and Christopher Peterson, shifted

the focus to human strengths and virtues that help individuals thrive. To scientifically

classify and measure these strengths, Seligman and Peterson developed the Values in

Action (VIA) Classification of Character Strengths and Virtues (2004). The VIA

framework is a positive counterpart to the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of

Mental Disorders) and helps people identify, understand, and use their personal

strengths to achieve fulfillment, resilience, and well-being.

2. Classification of VIA

What is the VIA Classification?

• The VIA Classification is a systematic way of identifying and measuring

human strengths.

• Developed by Martin Seligman & Christopher Peterson (2004).

 • Identifies 24 universal character strengths grouped into 6 core virtues.

Inspired by philosophical, religious, and cultural traditions from around the

world.

• Helps individuals build happiness, resilience, and meaningful lives.

VIA classification

For much of the 20th century, psychology focused primarily on mental

illness, disorders, and pathology. The primary goal of psychological research

and clinical practice was to diagnose, treat, and prevent mental disorders

using classification systems like the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of

Mental Disorders (DSM) and the International Classification of Diseases

(ICD).

However, with the emergence of positive psychology in the late 20th and early

21st centuries, psychologists began focusing on human strengths, virtues, and

well-being rather than just diagnosing problems. This shift led to the

development of new classification systems, such as the VIA Classification of

Character Strengths and Virtues, which aims to highlight the positive aspects

of human nature.

 The Traditional Focus

 The emergence of the 21st-Century Strengths-Based Classification

 Six Virtues of VIA

i. The Traditional Focus: Classification of Mental Illness

Before the rise of positive psychology, psychology was primarily focused on

mental disorder.
  Major classification systems included:

DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) – Developed by

the American Psychiatric Association (APA), it categorizes mental illnesses

based on symptoms and clinical presentations.

 ICD (International Classification of Diseases) –

Developed by the World Health Organization (WHO), it provides a global

standard for diagnosing mental and physical illnesses.

• Limitations of the Illness-Based Approach:

Deficit-Based Model – Focused on what is wrong with people rather than

what is right.

Lack of Emphasis on Well-Being – Ignored personal strengths, resilience,

and flourishing.

Medicalization of Psychology – Treated psychological challenges as

pathological conditions rather than human experiences.

Martin Seligman (1998), the founder of Positive Psychology, argued:

1)Psychology should focus on strengths, virtues, and well-being, not just

disorders.

2)Mental health is not just the absence of illness, but also the presence of

wellbeing.

Why is the VIA Classification Important?

• Moves psychology from fixing weaknesses to enhancing strengths.

• Provides a scientific method to measure and develop character strengths.

 • Used in education, therapy, leadership, and personal development.

ii. The emergence of the 21st-Century Strengths-Based Classification

 Background Context

In the late 20th century, psychology was largely oriented toward diagnosing and

treating mental illness. However, there was growing concern that the field had

neglected the study of human strengths, virtues, and well-being. This critique laid

the foundation for the rise of positive psychology, a movement officially launched

by Martin Seligman in 1998 during his term as APA President.

 Emergence of VIA (Values in Action)

• Founders: The VIA Classification was developed by Martin Seligman and

Christopher Peterson, who aimed to create a counterpart to the DSM (Diagnostic

and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders)—but instead of cataloguing mental

illnesses, they wanted to catalog positive human traits.

• Publication: Their work culminated in the book Character Strengths and Virtues: A

Handbook and Classification (2004), which introduced the VIA framework.

• Purpose: The goal was to identify core human strengths that contribute to a fulfilling

and meaningful life.

 Significance in the 21st Century

• Positive Psychology’s Expansion: VIA has become a foundational tool in positive

psychology, influencing research, education, therapy, and workplace development.

• Global Reach: The VIA Inventory of Strengths is used by millions globally in

various languages.

 Implications for the Future

  Promotes a more holistic view of human nature.

 Encourages strengths-based interventions.

 Aligns with 21st-century priorities like well-being, emotional intelligence, and

positive organizational behaviour.

 Supports education systems in nurturing well-rounded individuals through

socialemotional learning (SEL).

iii. Six Virtues Of VIA (values in action)

Dr. Peterson & Dr. Martin Seligman published a book ‘’ Character Strengths and

Virtues’’ in 2004. It includes 24 character strengths categorized under 6 core virtues. Here's a

breakdown of the six virtues along with their associated character strengths:

24 Character Strengths grouped under 6 Virtues:

1. Wisdom and Knowledge

2. Courage

3. Humanity

4. Justice

5. Temperance

6. Transcendence

1. Wisdom and Knowledge (Cognitive Strengths)

This virtue includes strengths that help us gain and use knowledge in meaningful ways.

People strong in these areas tend to enjoy thinking, learning, and problem-solving.

 Creativity means coming up with new and original ideas or solutions. Creative

individuals can look at situations in unique ways and develop innovative approaches.
  Curiosity involves a deep desire to explore and discover. Curious individuals love

asking questions and are eager to learn about different people, places, and ideas.

 Judgment (Critical Thinking) refers to the ability to think clearly, examine all sides

of an issue, and make well-informed decisions. These individuals are open-minded

and rational.

 Love of Learning is the enjoyment of acquiring new knowledge or skills, whether

formally or informally. These people often read, study, or engage in learning activities

out of personal interest.

 Perspective (Wisdom) is the ability to see the bigger picture, understand life from

multiple viewpoints, and offer valuable advice to others. Such individuals often act as

trusted advisors.

2. Courage (Emotional Strengths)

Courageous individuals face challenges and fears with determination and inner strength.

These strengths help them persist even when things are difficult.

 Bravery is acting despite fear, danger, or risk. Brave individuals take on tough

challenges without running away.

 Perseverance is the strength to continue working hard and pushing through obstacles

until a goal is achieved. These people don’t give up easily.

 Honesty means being truthful and sincere in one’s actions and words. Honest people

live with integrity and are authentic in their behavior.

 Zest is approaching life with excitement, enthusiasm, and energy. Zestful individuals

are passionate and lively, fully engaging in whatever they do.

3. Humanity (Interpersonal Strengths)

This virtue involves caring for others and building meaningful relationships. People strong in

humanity are compassionate, empathetic, and supportive.

 Love refers to forming close relationships and valuing deep emotional bonds. Loving

individuals give and receive affection freely.

 Kindness means doing good for others without expecting anything in return. Kind

people are generous, helpful, and considerate.

 Social Intelligence is understanding others’ emotions and social cues. These

individuals are skilled in managing interpersonal situations with sensitivity and

insight.

4. Justice (Civic Strengths)

Justice-based strengths help individuals work well in groups and promote fairness in society.

These strengths emphasize equality, responsibility, and leadership.

 Teamwork is working cooperatively with others and being loyal to the group. Such

individuals contribute to group success and foster a sense of unity.

 Fairness involves treating everyone equally and justly, without favoritism. Fair

individuals respect the rights of others and avoid discrimination.

 Leadership means guiding and motivating others toward a common goal. Good

leaders are fair, organized, and inspiring.

5. Temperance (Self-Regulation Strengths)

Temperance includes strengths that help us manage our emotions and behavior. These

strengths protect us from excess and help us live balanced lives.

 Forgiveness is letting go of resentment and offering second chances. Forgiving

individuals choose understanding over revenge.

 Humility involves having a modest view of oneself and avoiding arrogance. Humble

people recognize their strengths without boasting.

 Prudence is thinking carefully before acting, especially when making important

decisions. Prudent individuals are cautious and avoid unnecessary risks.

 Self-Regulation means controlling one’s emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. These

individuals stay calm under pressure and maintain discipline.

6. Transcendence (Meaning-Based Strengths)

These strengths connect us to something larger than ourselves and help us find purpose,

meaning, and joy in life.

 Appreciation of Beauty and Excellence is noticing and admiring beauty, skill, and

moral goodness in the world. These individuals feel awe and wonder easily.

 Gratitude involves being thankful and expressing appreciation for life’s blessings.

Grateful people recognize and value what they have.

 Hope is expecting positive outcomes and believing that the future will be good.

Hopeful individuals stay optimistic even during challenges.

 Humor means bringing joy and laughter to others. Humorous individuals see the

lighter side of life and help others feel better.

  Spirituality is having beliefs that provide meaning and purpose in life. Spiritually

strong individuals often feel connected to something greater, whether religious or

philosophical.

5. Measuring Character Strengths: The VIA Survey

The VIA Character Strengths Survey is a scientifically developed online assessment tool

designed to help individuals identify and understand their personal strengths. It was created
by psychologists Martin Seligman and Christopher Peterson as part of their Values in Action

(VIA) Classification of character strengths—a positive alternative to traditional diagnostic

tools like the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders).

i. VIA Survey of Character Strengths

This is the most well-known and widely used assessment tool developed specifically for the

VIA framework by Seligman and Peterson.

 It is a free, self-report questionnaire that individuals can take online (available on the

VIA Institute on Character’s website).

 The survey contains questions designed to assess the 24 character strengths identified

in the VIA classification.

 After completing the survey, individuals receive a personalized strengths profile

showing which character strengths are strongest (top strengths) and which are less

dominant.

 This profile helps people recognize their core virtues, which can be used for personal

development, better relationships, academic success, and even therapy or coaching.

✅ Why it's important:

Understanding your signature strengths can boost self-confidence, increase engagement, and

help you lead a more meaningful life by focusing on what you naturally do well.

ii. Other Measures of Strengths and Well-Being

Besides the VIA Survey, other scientifically validated tools are used in positive psychology

to measure well-being, life satisfaction, and strengths. These include:

🔹 Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS)

 Developed by Diener et al., this is a short five-item scale used to assess global life

satisfaction.

 Participants rate their agreement with statements like “In most ways, my life is close

to my ideal.”

 It provides a general sense of happiness and life contentment, rather than focusing on

specific emotions or events.

Usefulness:

This tool is widely used in research and practice to evaluate a person's overall happiness and

to track improvement in mental health and well-being.

🔹 StrengthsFinder (Gallup)

 Now known as CliftonStrengths, this tool was developed by the Gallup Organization

to identify an individual’s top talents and strengths, especially in the context of work

and leadership.

 It measures 34 talent themes, such as Achiever, Learner, Communication, or

Strategic.

 The results are often used in career counseling, coaching, and organizational

development.

Usefulness:

StrengthsFinder helps individuals understand their natural patterns of thinking, feeling, and
behaving, and how to leverage these strengths in their careers, leadership roles, and

teamwork.

 Why Are These Assessments Important?

These tools serve several practical and psychological benefits:

🔸 Enhanced Professional Success

 In workplaces, identifying employee strengths can improve productivity, job

satisfaction, and teamwork.

 Leaders and managers who use strength-based feedback foster positive organizational

cultures.

🔸 Greater Resilience and Coping

 During challenging times, knowing and using one’s strengths (like Hope,

Perseverance, or Humor) can build psychological resilience and help people bounce

back from adversity.

🔹 . Understanding Natural Talents

 The survey reveals who you are at your best, highlighting strengths you may not have

consciously recognized.

 This self-knowledge can enhance confidence and clarity in life decisions.

🔹 . Improved Self-Awareness, Well-Being, and Performance

 When people use their strengths regularly, research shows they experience:
 o Greater emotional well-being

o Lower stress and depression

o Better work performance and academic success

o Stronger relationships

🔹 . Guided Personal Development and Goal Setting

 Knowing your character strengths can help you:

 Set more meaningful goals

 Choose careers or activities that align with your values

 Improve resilience, especially in tough times

 Develop weaker areas by using your top strengths in creative ways.

6. Applications of the VIA Classification

The VIA Classification of Character Strengths is not just a theoretical model—it has practical

value and is applied in many real-world settings. Its focus is on using a person’s natural

strengths to enhance performance, well-being, and relationships. Let’s explore its main

applications:

📘 1. In Education

How it helps:

 The VIA framework shifts the focus from simply correcting students’ weaknesses to

nurturing their strengths.

  Teachers use it to identify each student’s unique character strengths (e.g.,

perseverance, love of learning, curiosity).

 It encourages a strengths-based learning environment where students feel more

motivated, confident, and engaged.

Benefits:

 Increases academic motivation and classroom participation

 Enhances self-esteem and emotional resilience in students

 Promotes character development and moral values

Example:

A teacher notices a student shows high curiosity and love of learning. Instead of forcing the

student into repetitive tasks, the teacher gives them opportunities to explore, research, and ask

questions—helping the student thrive academically and emotionally.

🏢 2. In the Workplace

How it helps:

 Organizations use the VIA framework to build strong, complementary teams.

 Managers identify the strengths of team members (e.g., teamwork, leadership,

perseverance) to assign them roles they naturally excel in.

 It boosts employee engagement, job satisfaction, and motivation.

Benefits:
  Improves communication and collaboration

 Enhances productivity and innovation

 Reduces burnout by aligning tasks with strengths

Example:

A company identifies that an employee’s strength is zest (enthusiasm and energy). They

assign them to roles that involve presentations and customer engagement. The employee feels

energized and performs exceptionally well.

🧠 3. In Therapy & Coaching

How it helps:

 Therapists and life coaches use the VIA survey to help clients identify and use their

top strengths to overcome stress, anxiety, or depression.

 Rather than focusing solely on problems, therapy becomes strength-based,

empowering clients to find solutions using their own capacities.

Benefits:

 Increases optimism and hope in clients

 Builds emotional resilience and coping strategies

 Supports long-term well-being and behavior change

Example:

A client struggling with low self-esteem is found to have kindness and forgiveness as

strengths. The therapist helps the client rebuild confidence by engaging in kind acts, which

reinforces their value and emotional healing.

👥 4. In Leadership Development

How it helps:

 Leaders use the VIA strengths to understand their leadership style, identify their

strengths (e.g., fairness, honesty, perspective), and lead in ways that align with their

values.

 They also learn to recognize and activate the strengths of their team members.

Benefits:

 Builds trust and respect among teams

 Inspires others through authentic leadership

 Helps leaders make ethical and balanced decisions

Example:

A manager whose top strengths are leadership and fairness creates an inclusive workplace

where everyone's voice is heard, roles are assigned fairly, and achievements are celebrated—

leading to a more motivated and united team.

Field VIA Application

Education Builds student strengths and promotes positive learning

Workplace Increases team performance, motivation, and satisfaction

Therapy & Coaching Encourages self-growth and emotional healing

Leadership Promotes ethical, strengths-based leadership

 7. VIA vs. Traditional Psychological Models

 How VIA differs from traditional psychology:

Traditional Psychology (DSM) Positive Psychology (VIA)

Focuses on mental disorders Focuses on strengths & virtues

Helps diagnose & treat illnesses Helps people flourish & grow

Uses a deficit-based approach Uses a strengths-based approach

Focuses on reducing suffering Focuses on enhancing well-being