Ellen Boldrup Tingleff

Ellen Boldrup Tingleff is an Associate Professor at the University of Southern Denmark's Department of Regional Health Research within the Forensic Mental Health Research Unit in Middelfart. She holds an MScN and PhD, with extensive expertise in forensic psychiatry and qualitative research methodologies. Her work bridges clinical practice and academic research in mental health services within the Region of Southern Denmark.

Dr. Tingleff's research interests focus on forensic psychiatry, qualitative research methods, reduction of coercion, involvement of relatives in mental health care, and staff transitions. Her work demonstrates a strong commitment to improving mental health services through evidence-based approaches that prioritize patient dignity and family involvement. She has developed significant expertise in thematic analysis and systematic reviews within mental health contexts.

Her recent publications and research activities show a clear trend toward understanding and reducing mechanical restraint in forensic mental health settings, with particular attention to patient, relative, and staff perspectives. This work has practical implications for clinical practice and policy development in mental healthcare.

Dr. Tingleff has received recognition through policy references and media coverage of her work, including features in annual psychiatric research reports from the Region of Southern Denmark and media discussions about the humiliating aspects of mechanical restraint.

She actively supervises students and has led multiple research projects, including the current 'Family Engagement in Forensic Mental Healthcare Settings' PhD project (2025-2027) and the 'Reduction of mechanical restraints in forensic psychiatry' research project (2020-2025). Her teaching portfolio includes courses on mental health, involvement of relatives in psychiatric care, and qualitative research considerations.

Dr. Tingleff works within the Forensic Mental Health Research Unit, collaborating with colleagues like F. Gildberg and others on initiatives to reduce coercive and restrictive practices in Danish forensic mental health settings. Her work demonstrates strong interdisciplinary collaboration across healthcare professions in mental health contexts.