Bottom Up Vs Top Down Approach

Question 1

Compare the definitions of top-down and bottom-up approaches

Answer 1

Top-down approach is usually initiated by government or people in positions of authority.

Bottom-up approach is usually initiated by the community itself

Question 2

Advantages of top-down approach (7)

Answer 2

• Programmes are more structured and organised
• Professionals often have access to funding
• Professionals often have access to multiple sectoral- stakeholders
• Quick results
• Have knowledge to implement evidence based practices
• Specialises training to provide services for complex cases.
• Occupational therapists can address occupational injustices

Question 3

Disadvantages of top-down approach (6)

Answer 3

• Professionals often work in isolation
• Lack of community participation
• Time consuming (with less time for carry over to community)
• Professionals often have values based on western society.
• Professionals may sometimes not know what is best for the clients.
• Emphasis is on medical instead of social model.

Question 4

Advantages of bottom- up approach

Answer 4

• Aims to integrate people into society
• Promotes community participation
• Encourages innovative use of local resources
• Changes negative attitudes of community
• more flexible
• flexible with few limitations

Question 5

Disadvantages of bottom up approach

Answer 5

• structures or systems have no clear form
  -less trained personnel, slow results
  Inadequate knowledge & skills in community on planning and development
  Lack of infrastructure, functioning institutions