VIA Character Strengths

The VIA Character Strengths Survey (developed by the VIA Institute on Character) is one of the most widely used positive psychology tools to identify an individual’s core strengths. Unlike personality tests (e.g., the Big Five), it focuses on positive traits that contribute to well-being, resilience, and fulfillment.

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Key Features of the VIA Survey

1. 24 Character Strengths
   • Categorized under 6 universal virtues (based on research across cultures and philosophies):
     • Wisdom (Creativity, Curiosity, Judgment, Love of Learning, Perspective)
     • Courage (Bravery, Perseverance, Honesty, Zest)
     • Humanity (Love, Kindness, Social Intelligence)
     • Justice (Teamwork, Fairness, Leadership)
     • Temperance (Forgiveness, Humility, Prudence, Self-Regulation)
     • Transcendence (Appreciation of Beauty, Gratitude, Hope, Humor, Spirituality)
2. Ranked Results
   • After taking the test (120 questions, ~15–20 mins), you receive a personalized ranking of your strengths from 1 (most innate) to 24.
   • Your “Signature Strengths” (top 5–7) are traits you naturally express and energize you.
3. Science-Based
   • Developed by psychologists Martin Seligman and Christopher Peterson as part of the positive psychology movement.
   • Used in coaching, education, therapy, and workplace development.

Uses of the VIA Survey

• Self-Awareness: Identify strengths to cultivate happiness and resilience.
• Career Fit: Align work with strengths (e.g., someone high in “Love of Learning” may thrive in research).
• Relationships: Understand complementary strengths in teams/families.
• Therapy/Coaching: Address challenges by building on existing strengths.

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Criticisms & Limitations

• Self-Report Bias: Like all surveys, results depend on honest self-reflection.
• Cultural Bias: Some strengths (e.g., “Spirituality”) may vary in relevance across cultures.
• Overlap: Certain strengths (e.g., “Zest” and “Enthusiasm”) can feel similar.

Interpret Your Results & Take Action