According to the research, such an approach can cause alienation, demoralization, stereotyping, stigmatizing, poor self-image, and decreased motivation (Laursen, 2003, p. 12). By putting all our attention on the problem, we are ensuring that past failures remain in the forefront and effectively set the stage for children and youth to expect the worst (Laursen, 2003, p. 12). The author maintains that a strengths-based approach does just the opposite. Case in point, research across many disciplines has determined there are four factors necessary for positive outcomes, all of which happen to be essential elements in the strengths-based perspective (Laursen, 2003, p. 13). These factors are: “cultivating strengths, supports, and successful coping with random events; forming and maintaining a positive therapeutic alliance; cultivating a spirit of hope and positive expectations; employing methods respectful of the client’s values and needs” (Laursen, 2003, p. 13). Each of these factors accounts for a percentage of the treatment outcome. The breakdown is as follows: 40% is “what the