Using Collaborative Advocacy to Foster Intergroup Cooperation: A Joint Insider-Outsider Investigation

Abstract

Two of the authors of this paper have developed a model for promoting intergroup collaboration called collaborative advocacy. This model aims at achieving intergroup relationships that are both productive and empowering for their members; its cornerstone process goals include intergroup cooperation, group co-empowerment, and member empowerment. In this paper, an outside researcher and the two developers of this model describe and evaluate its use in the advisory board of an education and advocacy project for persons with developmental disabilities, family members, and professionals. Results of archival and interview investigations indicated that the project has succeeded in fostering educational activities, spawning the development of new advocacy projects, obtaining financial support, and providing opportunities for participants to make public contributions to the understanding of disabilities. Most board members have been satisfied with their level of influence. Group differences remain regarding the advisory board's goals and perceptions of the meaning of empowerment.