Selfadvocacy
Self-advocacy is the practice of individuals speaking up for their own needs, rights, and preferences to secure appropriate services, accommodations, and participation in decisions that affect them. It emphasizes autonomy, informed choice, and active engagement in decision-making.
Core elements include knowledge of one’s rights and options; self-awareness about needs; clear communication and negotiation
Self-advocacy occurs across settings such as education, healthcare, disability services, workplaces, and community organizations. In education,
Barriers include power imbalances, stigma, communication challenges, lack of accessible information, language barriers, and fear of
Outcomes often include greater access to services, greater satisfaction and autonomy, and more effective collaboration with