Which statement best describes Appreciative Inquiry (AI)?

Which statement best describes Appreciative Inquiry (AI)?

• A. A deficit-focused approach that starts with problems.
• B. A data-only analytical technique.
• C. An external-audit method for evaluating programs.
• D. A strengths-based approach that starts with what's working and centers lived experience.

Answer: (D)

Appreciative Inquiry is a strengths-based approach that starts with what's working and centers the lived experiences of those affected. In public health and program development, this means inviting people to share success stories, identify strengths, and imagine a positive future, then collaboratively design actions that build on those assets. It emphasizes dialogue, storytelling, and co-creation rather than simply analyzing data or auditing for problems. It’s an internal, participatory process aimed at sustainable improvement by focusing on people and their experiences. That’s why describing AI as a strengths-based approach that starts with what's working and centers lived experience fits best.

Appreciative Inquiry is a strengths-based approach that starts with what's working and centers the lived experiences of those affected. In public health and program development, this means inviting people to share success stories, identify strengths, and imagine a positive future, then collaboratively design actions that build on those assets. It emphasizes dialogue, storytelling, and co-creation rather than simply analyzing data or auditing for problems. It’s an internal, participatory process aimed at sustainable improvement by focusing on people and their experiences. That’s why describing AI as a strengths-based approach that starts with what's working and centers lived experience fits best.