In an asset-based community development approach, which action would a social worker most likely promote?

In an asset-based community development approach, the focus is on recognizing and mobilizing the strengths, resources, and capacities within a community. This perspective emphasizes building on what the community already has—its existing assets—rather than concentrating solely on its deficiencies or needs.

Promoting the identification of local assets and needs is pivotal because it empowers community members and fosters a sense of ownership over the development process. By understanding and valuing their strengths, community members can collaborate to create sustainable solutions that reflect their unique circumstances and needs. This approach encourages active participation, builds social cohesion, and enhances community resilience, which ultimately leads to more effective and sustainable community development outcomes.

While critiques of government policies, development of new programs, and soliciting outside assistance may play roles in various social work contexts, they do not align with the core principles of asset-based community development as directly as the identification of local assets and needs does. These other options may even risk undermining the community's capacity to utilize its own resources effectively.