NCJ Number
115270
Date Published
1981
Length
74 pages
Annotation
This study presents a conceptual framework to explain types of advocacy and to describe principles and steps for advocacy practice.
Abstract
The study involved focused interviews with Federal, State, and private administrators and program staff. The bulk of the supporting evidence, however, came from the author's years of observing advocates and advocacy programs, conversations with persons working in such programs, and the author's own efforts in working in and with advocacy programs on behalf of youth in the juvenile justice system. The assumptions underlying the advocacy framework are first noted. Among them is the generic definition of advocacy as 'acting on behalf of clients and/or client interests.' The assumptions pertain to personhood, justice, and society. The advocacy typology that emerges from the conceptual framework consists of three types: case, community, and class. Although these types differ regarding the client populations served, arenas, and objectives, they have generic steps in common. These include defining the problem or issue, determining targets for change, assessing the resources available, assessing the political environment in which advovacy occurs, developing and implementing appropriate advocacy strategies, timing advocacy efforts, and following up advocacy efforts. Qualitative aspects of advocacy practice are also important to each type of advocacy. These consist of the involvement of clients as advocates, viewing the process and obstacles from others' perspectives, providing stake for supporters and opponents in the proposed changes, and engaging in realistic conflict while avoiding unrealistic or symbolic conflict. Chapter footnotes.