Which phrase best expresses the principle that power in peer support should be distributed between the peer and the person served?

Which phrase best expresses the principle that power in peer support should be distributed between the peer and the person served?

• A. Equally Shared Power
• B. Personal Control Only
• C. Professional Authority Only
• D. Equal But Limited Power

Answer: (A)

Shared decision-making and empowerment in peer support are central. Equally Shared Power means both the person served and the peer contribute and influence decisions; the person served maintains agency and leads recovery while the peer offers support and lived experience as a partner, not an authority. This best expresses distributing power in the relationship rather than concentrating it with one side. Personal Control Only would place all control with the person served, leaving no collaborative influence from the peer. Professional Authority Only elevates the professional’s control over the relationship, which undermines recovery and partnership. Equal But Limited Power implies a fixed cap on collaboration, which doesn’t reflect the ongoing, dynamic balance intended in true peer support.

Shared decision-making and empowerment in peer support are central. Equally Shared Power means both the person served and the peer contribute and influence decisions; the person served maintains agency and leads recovery while the peer offers support and lived experience as a partner, not an authority. This best expresses distributing power in the relationship rather than concentrating it with one side. Personal Control Only would place all control with the person served, leaving no collaborative influence from the peer. Professional Authority Only elevates the professional’s control over the relationship, which undermines recovery and partnership. Equal But Limited Power implies a fixed cap on collaboration, which doesn’t reflect the ongoing, dynamic balance intended in true peer support.