Which of the following is NOT one of the categories of target identified by Richan?

The category of target identified by Richan that is considered not applicable here is neutral observers. In social work and advocacy contexts, Richan's framework typically includes active allies, committed opponents, and ambivalent individuals or organizations as key groups for strategizing engagement and influence.

Active allies are individuals or organizations that support the cause and can be mobilized for action. Committed opponents actively resist the change or advocacy efforts and need to be addressed with specific strategies. Ambivalent individuals or organizations may be unsure or conflicted about the issues at hand, and engaging them can often lead to shifts in perspective.

Neutral observers, however, do not fall into a category that Richan identifies as a strategic target since they are not actively participating in the dialogue or conflict surrounding the issues and therefore do not require the same level of strategic engagement or influence tactics as the other categories. This distinction is important for effective planning and targeting within macro social work practice.