What is a key difference between advocacy and self-advocacy?

The concept of self-advocacy is primarily characterized by the act of representing one's own interests, needs, and rights. This means that an individual participates actively in determining what is best for themselves, expressing their thoughts, concerns, and desires regarding various aspects of their life, such as health care, education, or social services. Self-advocacy empowers individuals to take charge of their own circumstances rather than relying on others to speak on their behalf.

In contrast, advocacy, in a broader sense, often involves working on behalf of a group or community to address collective issues, pushing for changes that benefit a larger population rather than focusing solely on individual needs. This is why self-advocacy is uniquely about the individual's ability to stand up for themselves and navigate their own challenges, making it crucial to understand the distinction when discussing advocacy-related roles and responsibilities.