Social Work

Research in social work and welfare law aims to expand the scientific knowledge base to enhance and improve practical social work with individuals and to strengthen the welfare system’s responsibility for and treatment of vulnerable groups. The research is conducted in a multicultural context, where a humanistic view of people and the equal value of all individuals serve as foundations for creating a society with good living conditions, equality, and participation.

Key concepts and perspectives in the research include social change, social cohesion, social justice, and human rights. A key driving force is that scientific knowledge is produced in collaboration with and benefits clients/service users, their relatives, and professionals. A central aspect of all research at ISV is to strengthen the connection between research, practice, and education.

"Social Work for Social Justice" serves as the overarching theme for research in social work and welfare law. The research is organized into two main themes:

• Violations of dignity and rights
• The creation and maintenance of participation and rights

The first theme focuses primarily on intimate partner violence, while the second theme centers on the inclusion of vulnerable groups in society. Welfare law, issues of representation, user and family perspectives, as well as the conditions, forms, and outcomes of social work, are cross-cutting aspects of the research.

In addition to extensive research on children, youth, and adults, particularly in relation to violence, studies also address children's rights, voluntary social work, user perspectives, the situation of family members, substance abuse, aging, and disabilities.

The research includes several projects and two research programs:

• Coordinated intervention systems against violence in close relationships (SIVIN-Barn)
• Human Dignity and Participation – Conditions and Rights for People with Disabilities (MOD)