What is the VIA Character Survey?
Based on years of psychological research, the VIA Survey is a scientifically validated tool that measures 24 universal character strengths—qualities like curiosity, perseverance, kindness and leadership. Unlike skills or talents, character strengths reflect who we are at our core.
Every student has a unique strengths profile. By understanding this profile, learners build positive self-awareness, confidence and resilience—empowering them to navigate challenges and develop a meaningful sense of identity.
A Journey of Strengths-Based Self-Discovery
The survey experience is age-appropriate, simple, and engaging. Once completed, students receive a personalised Youth Decoder Report with insights that include:
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A full character strengths profile with all 24 strengths ranked
A deep dive into their top 5 strengths and how to use them
Practical tips to develop lesser strengths
Encouraging language and positive descriptors to build self-esteem
Ideas for classroom discussions and learning moments
Why It Matters
🌱 Builds self-awareness and emotional literacy
💪 Encourages personal growth through a strengths-based lens
🎯 Supports goal setting and positive behaviour choices
🧠 Deepens character education in school communities
💬 Opens up powerful conversations about what makes us us
Grounded in Science
The VIA Character Strengths framework was developed by psychologists Christopher Peterson and Martin Seligman as part of the positive psychology movement. Over 35 million people worldwide have completed the survey—and now students using youHQ can benefit too.
This groundbreaking tool is already being used in hundreds of classrooms to promote well-being, guide personal development, and support tailored, strengths-based learning.
Want to learn more about VIA? Explore VIACharacter.org →