Positive Deviance Approach

The positive deviance approach differs from traditional "needs based" or problem-solving approaches in that it does not focus primarily on identification of needs and the external inputs necessary to meet those needs or solve problems. Instead it seeks to identify and optimise existing successful solutions or strategies within the community or organisation to solve problems that require behaviour and social change. Positive Deviance is based on the observation that in every community or organisation, there are a few individuals or groups who have overcome or prevented a pervading problem while using the same resources as their peers.