The VIA Character Strengths is a widely-used positive psychology framework developed by Dr. Martin Seligman and Dr. Christopher Peterson. It consists of 24 character strengths that are categorized into six different virtues. Character strengths have been termed the “un-DSM”, referencing the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual that is used to categorise mental distress problems, in that it defines validated positive personality attributes.
In Positive Psychology, and positive psychology coaching, the VIA Character Strengths system, gives us a clear vocabulary of real strengths, that can be identified, explored and developed through evidence-based positive psychology interventions. When I use it with my positive psychology coaching clients, we can really call upon the character strengths system to give us a shared understanding of what we are doing well, and how our strengths are being used and developed in pursuit of coaching goals.
The framework is based on the idea that individuals have unique character strengths that they can use to enhance their well-being, relationships, and personal growth. In this article, we will explore the 24 VIA Character Strengths, their definitions, and how they can be applied in everyday life.
The Six Virtues
The 24 VIA Character Strengths are grouped into six virtues, which are broad categories that reflect core aspects of human personality. These virtues are:
Wisdom
Courage
Humanity
Justice
Temperance
Transcendence
Each of these virtues comprises four character strengths that are related to it.
Wisdom
The virtue of wisdom is associated with cognitive strengths that involve the acquisition and use of knowledge. These strengths help individuals to learn and grow from their experiences, to make good decisions, and to share their insights with others. The four character strengths that are part of the virtue of wisdom are:
a. Creativity: This strength involves using imagination and originality to generate new and innovative ideas. Individuals using this character strength may be resourceful, unconventional, and adaptable. Creativity explores new possibilities and challenges traditional ways of thinking.
b. Curiosity: This strength involves a strong desire to learn and acquire knowledge about the world. Individuals using this character strength may show open-mindedness, eagerness to explore new topics, and are interest in understanding how things work.
c. Open-mindedness: This strength involves being receptive to different perspectives and ideas, and being willing to change one’s own views when presented with new evidence. Individuals using this strength may be flexible, tolerant, and accepting of diversity.
d. Love of learning: This strength involves a passion for acquiring new knowledge and skills. Individuals with this strength enjoy the process of learning, and they tend to seek out opportunities for growth and development.
Courage
The virtue of courage is associated with emotional strengths that involve overcoming fears and taking action in the face of adversity. These strengths help individuals to persevere in difficult situations, to stand up for their values and beliefs, and to take risks when necessary.
The four character strengths that are part of the virtue of courage are:
a. Bravery: This strength involves facing danger or difficulty with courage and confidence. Individuals with this strength tend to be assertive, adventurous, and resilient. They are willing to take risks and to stand up for what they believe in.
b. Persistence: This strength involves sticking with a task or goal despite obstacles or setbacks. Individuals with this strength tend to be determined, hard-working, and disciplined. They are able to maintain their focus and motivation even when faced with challenges.
c. Integrity: This strength involves being honest and ethical in one’s actions and decisions. Individuals with this strength have a strong sense of moral values and principles, and they strive to live in accordance with these values.
d. Vitality: This strength involves having high levels of physical and mental energy. Individuals with this strength tend to be enthusiastic, active, and full of life. They enjoy challenging themselves and staying active.
Humanity
The virtue of humanity is associated with interpersonal strengths that involve connecting with others and building positive relationships. These strengths help individuals to empathize with others, to communicate effectively, and to create a sense of community. The four character strengths that are part of the virtue of humanity are:
a. Kindness: This strength involves showing concern for the well-being of others and taking action to help them. Individuals with this strength
b. Love: This strength involves giving and receiving affection, caring, and compassion. Individuals with this strength tend to be warm, nurturing, and supportive. They enjoy building and maintaining close relationships with others.
c. Social intelligence: This strength involves the ability to understand and navigate social situations effectively. Individuals with this strength are skilled at picking up on nonverbal cues, communicating clearly, and resolving conflicts.
d. Perspective: This strength involves being able to see situations from multiple viewpoints and to appreciate the diversity of human experiences. Individuals with this strength tend to be open-minded, empathetic, and understanding.
Justice
The virtue of justice is associated with civic strengths that involve promoting fairness and equal treatment for all individuals. These strengths help individuals to act ethically, to contribute to their community, and to stand up for social justice. The four character strengths that are part of the virtue of justice are:
a. Teamwork: This strength involves working collaboratively with others to achieve a common goal. Individuals with this strength tend to be cooperative, supportive, and reliable. They enjoy being part of a team and contributing to its success.
b. Fairness: This strength involves treating others in an equitable and just manner. Individuals with this strength tend to be impartial, objective, and respectful of others’ rights and needs.
c. Leadership: This strength involves inspiring and guiding others to achieve a shared vision. Individuals with this strength tend to be confident, visionary, and influential. They enjoy taking charge and motivating others to excel.
d. Citizenship: This strength involves actively participating in one’s community and promoting the common good. Individuals with this strength tend to be responsible, engaged, and committed to social justice. They enjoy making a positive difference in the world.
Temperance
The virtue of temperance is associated with strengths that involve self-regulation and moderation. These strengths help individuals to control their impulses, to manage their emotions, and to maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle. The four character strengths that are part of the virtue of temperance are:
a. Forgiveness: This strength involves letting go of anger and resentment towards others who have caused harm or offense. Individuals with this strength tend to be empathetic, compassionate, and understanding. They are able to forgive and move on from negative experiences.
b. Humility: This strength involves having a modest and humble view of oneself and one’s achievements. Individuals with this strength tend to be grounded, respectful, and appreciative of others. They do not seek attention or praise for themselves.
c. Prudence: This strength involves thinking carefully and weighing the consequences of one’s actions. Individuals with this strength tend to be cautious, deliberate, and thoughtful. They make wise decisions and avoid unnecessary risks.
d. Self-regulation: This strength involves controlling one’s impulses and managing one’s emotions in order to maintain self-discipline and self-control. Individuals with this strength tend to be reliable, responsible, and disciplined. They are able to resist temptation and stay focused on their goals.
Transcendence
The virtue of transcendence is associated with strengths that involve connecting with something greater than oneself and experiencing a sense of meaning and purpose in life. These strengths help individuals to transcend their own individual concerns and to contribute to something greater than themselves. The four character strengths that are part of the virtue of transcendence are:
a. Appreciation of beauty and excellence: This strength involves experiencing and valuing beauty, excellence, and awe-inspiring moments in life. Individuals with this strength tend to be observant, curious, and able to find joy and inspiration in everyday experiences.
b. Gratitude: This strength involves feeling and expressing thankfulness for the positive aspects of one’s life. Individuals with this strength tend to be appreciative, optimistic, and able to find meaning and purpose in their experiences.
c. Hope: This strength involves believing in a positive future and working towards its realization. Individuals with this strength tend to be optimistic, persistent, and able to envision a better future for themselves and others.
d. Spirituality: This strength involves having a sense of connection to something greater than oneself and seeking to understand the meaning and purpose of life. Individuals with this strength tend to be reflective, introspective, and open to exploring different spiritual traditions and beliefs.
Applications in Everyday Life
The VIA Character Strengths framework can be applied in many different areas of life to enhance well-being, build positive relationships, and promote personal growth. Here are some examples of how the character strengths can be used in everyday life:
At work: Individuals can use their character strengths to enhance their job performance, build positive relationships with colleagues, and find greater satisfaction and meaning in their work.
In relationships: Individuals can use their character strengths to build and maintain positive relationships with family, friends, and romantic partners. By showing kindness, empathy, and understanding, individuals can create strong and supportive connections with others.
In personal growth: Individuals can use their character strengths to set goals and make positive changes in their lives. By identifying their strengths and using them to overcome challenges and achieve their goals, individuals can build confidence and resilience.
In community engagement: Individuals can use their character strengths to contribute to their communities and promote social justice. By working collaboratively with others, showing fairness and leadership, and engaging in civic activities, individuals can make a positive difference in the world.
Conclusion
The VIA Character Strengths framework offers a powerful tool for enhancing well-being, building positive relationships, and promoting personal growth. By identifying and using their unique character strengths, individuals can find greater satisfaction and meaning in their lives, make positive contributions to their communities, and achieve their goals. Whether at work, in relationships, or in personal growth, the VIA Character Strengths can be applied in many different areas of life to promote flourishing and positive outcomes.
