What is the definition of personal agency? How to measure personal agency in the context of communities?

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Personal agency refers to the capacity of individuals to make choices and take actions that shape their lives and communities. It involves the ability to set goals, reflect on one's circumstances, and exercise free will to influence outcomes.

Measuring Personal Agency in Communities

To measure personal agency within communities, researchers can employ methods such as:

Surveys: Assessing community members' perceptions of their ability to enact change and their engagement in community initiatives.

Participatory action research: Actively involving community members in identifying challenges, setting goals, and implementing solutions to foster agency and empowerment.

Outcome analysis: Evaluating changes in community well-being, resource access, and collective efficacy resulting from initiatives that enhance personal agency.