Advocacy and Self-Determination Flashcards

Which of the following BEST describes the primary role of a CRSS in promoting self-determination for a person in recovery?

Answer: To support the individual in identifying their own goals and making their own informed choices.

The core of self-determination is supporting individuals to be the leaders of their own recovery. A CRSS acts as a guide and a source of support, empowering individuals to define their own goals and choose their own paths based on good information, rather than making decisions for them.

A peer you are supporting is hesitant to speak up during a meeting with their clinical care team. As their CRSS, how can you BEST advocate for them while respecting their self-determination?

Answer: Ask the peer if they would like you to help them express their thoughts or if they'd prefer to write them down to share.

This approach empowers the peer by offering support without taking away their voice. It gives them choices (self-determination) on how to proceed and models collaborative advocacy. Speaking for them disempowers them, and insisting they speak can be counterproductive.

Self-advocacy is a critical skill for long-term recovery. A CRSS can effectively teach this skill by:

Answer: Sharing personal stories of self-advocacy and encouraging the peer to practice in real-life situations.

Modeling self-advocacy through appropriate self-disclosure is a key function of a CRSS. Sharing personal experiences can teach and inspire, and encouraging the peer to practice in settings like doctor visits or job applications helps them build the skill and confidence for themselves.

According to the CRSS code of ethics, the principle of self-determination must be balanced with which other consideration?

Answer: The needs of others and the safety of society.

The CRSS Code of Ethics specifies that while individual choice is a cornerstone, it must be balanced by the need for the safety and support of not only the individual but also of others and the greater society.

A CRSS is helping an individual explore housing options. The individual is considering a choice that the CRSS believes may be unstable. What is the most appropriate action for the CRSS to take?

Answer: Encourage the individual to weigh the pros and cons of all options and help them find more information.

The role of the CRSS is to support informed decision-making, not to make the decision. By helping the individual explore the potential consequences (pros and cons) of their choice and access good information, the CRSS honors their self-determination while still providing valuable support.

Which of the following is an example of 'systems advocacy' that a CRSS might engage in?

Answer: Attending a community meeting to speak about the need for more recovery-friendly employment opportunities.

Systems advocacy involves working to create change at an organizational or community level that will benefit groups of people, not just one individual. Advocating for better employment opportunities is a classic example of working to improve the system for all people in recovery.