ABSTRACT
The positive deviance inquiry (PDI) lies at the heart of the positive deviance (PD)approach. It is the tool that enables us to discover the unique practices/beliefs that enable the positive deviant members of the community to outperform or find better solutions to problems than their neighbours. PD provides an excellent tool for advocacy regardless of subject matter, as long as the ultimate goal relates to behavioural change. PD is an unusually respectful development approach. The choice of the word 'inquiry' in 'PD inquiry' is worthy of note. The use of PD provides two distinctive advantages for those working in advocacy. First, by discovering and sharing the actual successful practices and behaviours utilised by the PDs, advocates can make those behaviours accessible to others. The second is the enlistment of the PDs themselves as advocates. 'Positive Deviance' —adeparture, difference, or deviation from the norm resulting in a positive outcome.
