American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Advocacy planning empowers a neighborhood or group to promote plans that address which of the following?

1. Social issues

2. Special interests

3. Its own needs and interests

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

Advocacy planning is a planning approach that aims to empower underrepresented populations or interest groups to promote their needs and goals within the planning process. The concept focuses on giving a voice to neighborhoods or communities, which often lack representation in decision-making arenas. By supporting social issues, advocacy planning recognizes the broader context of inequities that may exist within communities, helping to address problems related to housing, access to services, and general quality of life. Additionally, it takes into account special interests which can range from specific community groups, cultural considerations, or environmental concerns that need particular attention in the planning process. Finally, the emphasis on addressing a group's own needs and interests is fundamental to advocacy planning. This ensures that the plans developed reflect the priorities and aspirations of the community, rather than predominantly serving external interests or overlooking the needs of specific populations. Thus, the approach of advocacy planning encompasses addressing all these aspects—social issues, special interests, and the specific needs and desires of the community—making the choice that reflects this comprehensive focus on empowering groups in the planning process the most accurate answer.