Assignment task: Gayle, age 19, is a first-year college student at a large state university where she is enrolled in a two-year basic education program for students with intellectual disabilities. Gayle learned about college programs like hers on a TV show in which a character who, like Gayle, has Down syndrome visited one. Gayle decided to search for similar programs in or near her state, found several, and then went to her school guidance counselor to say she wanted to apply. Gayle's parents were supportive of her goals and always encouraged her to push herself and achieve all she could, and Gayle soon received a college-acceptance letter. Gayle is thrilled to be away at school and is really enjoying her experiences, but because she is also struggling with anxiety and homesickness, she seeks assistance from a program counselor.
1. What are the advantages of a strengths-based approach in working with Gayle?
2. Based on what you know of her, what virtues and strengths does Gayle possess and what evidence do you see of them? Refer to Table 13.1 Classification of Virtues & Strengths (Peterson & Seligman, 2004) for a list.
3. Outline the process of PPT as you believe it would unfold with Gayle.