Self-advocacy can be defined as?

Self-advocacy is fundamentally about individuals asserting their rights, needs, and preferences, especially in situations that affect their lives. This involves actively engaging in the process of communicating these needs and ensuring that they are understood and considered by others. It empowers individuals to take charge of their own situations rather than depending on others to speak on their behalf or make decisions for them.

Practicing how to get things done through behavior activation aligns closely with the essence of self-advocacy. Behavior activation encourages individuals to take actionable steps toward achieving their goals and fulfilling their needs. This proactive approach is critical in building confidence and competence in asserting oneself, which is a central theme of self-advocacy. It enables individuals to identify their needs, articulate them, and take the necessary actions to advocate for themselves effectively.

The other options do not capture the essence of self-advocacy. Relying on others limits personal agency, while practicing negotiation tactics may be part of advocacy but does not encompass the broader definition. Sole reliance on written communication overlooks the importance of interpersonal skills and verbal communication in self-advocacy.