Discuss one and 2

Assets vs. Deficits

While there are numerous processes for policy development, nearly all of them include a step focused on problem definition. In this phase, the policy analyst/developer will consider what problem needs to be fixed via policy. With regards to health policy, this usually entails describing how a particular health issue is negatively impacting a community. A proposed policy is then put forth to address this problem. While it is, of course, imperative to consider how to fix problems, some researchers and community development specialists suggest that focusing only on deficits limits the potential impact that policies can have. As we read in the Kretzmann and McKnight (1996) article this week, another way to think about community development (and, as an extension, the policies we create for a community) is via an assets-based approach. This approach asks us to think about the strengths of communities rather than the deficits as a way to improve the health of community members. There is a notable divergence in orientation in these two views, as they provide a very different starting point for the type of policies we might create. One model asks us to dismantle a problem while the other asks us to build on strengths. For example, when looking at the issue of high school graduation rates (which is a key predictor of the health of a community), a deficits-based approach might focus on the problems of school drop-out rates or gang involvement, while an assets-based approach might focus on school and community partnerships or parent-teacher communication. These different frames of reference will often result in very different outcomes for policy proposals.

Kretzmann, J., & McKnight, J. P. (1996). Assets-based community development

 (Links to an external site.)

 [PDF, file size 497 KB]. National Civic Review, 85(4), 23-29.

In this discussion, share your thoughts on the benefits and challenges of these two policy issue framing processes, needs/problem-based or assets-based, and which one may potentially be better for policy development. Use the following questions to help shape your initial response:

What are the strengths and weaknesses of the two approaches (needs/problem-based or assets-based) in addressing policy issues?

In what ways does the typical policy development process of focusing on problems and needs constrain our thinking about health policies?

Do all health issues lend themselves equally to an assets-based approach? Why or why not?

How could focusing more on community assets, rather than community problems and deficits, change the type and quality of the health policies we develop?

Then, respond to your classmates. How did your thoughts differ from your classmate’s? What important points did your classmate raise that you could expand on? What examples could you share that would highlight the difference in thinking between you and your classmate? How does your lens (your personal experiences, background, learning, etc.) affect your thinking on this subject, and how does your lens differ from that of your classmate?

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Evaluation

This discussion will be graded using a rubric. Please review this rubric prior to beginning the discussion. You can view the rubric on the Course Rubrics page within the Start Here module. All discussions combined are worth 25% of your final course grade.

Links:

https://comdev.osu.edu/sites/comdev/files/d6/files/Assets-Based%20Community%20Development%20-%20Article.pdf