Lottie Giertz

Lottie Giertz is a researcher at Linnaeus University's School of Social Sciences, Department of Social Work, where she leads the Social Work, Disability and Aging (SODA) research group. Her work focuses on the intersection of social work, disability rights, and legal frameworks affecting vulnerable populations.

Her educational background includes a Doctoral Thesis (2012) titled "Recognition, power and encounters: A study of influence and self-determination with LSS" and a Licentiate Thesis (2008) on "Ideals and everyday life: Influence and self-determination with personal assistance." These foundational works established her research trajectory in user participation and decision-making capacity.

Dr. Giertz's research primarily examines self-determination and quality of life for people with cognitive disabilities, with special emphasis on legal representation, guardianship, and dementia care. Her work bridges theoretical social work concepts with practical applications in municipal service delivery, particularly examining how legislation like the Swedish Social Services Act translates to real-world practice for vulnerable populations.

Analysis of her publication record reveals consistent focus on decision-making capacity across different contexts - from personal assistance services for people with intellectual disabilities to complex dementia care scenarios. Her interdisciplinary approach combines legal analysis with social work practice, often examining tensions between autonomy and protection in vulnerable populations.

Her research has been supported by significant funding sources including Forte, Fam. Kamprads forskningsstiftelse, and Arvsfonden, demonstrating the relevance of her work to national policy discussions. Current projects continue to explore representation mechanisms for people with impaired decision-making capacity, particularly focusing on "good man" (guardian) systems in Swedish municipalities.

As part of the SODA research group, Dr. Giertz collaborates with colleagues on studies examining social problems among people with disabilities and aging populations, contributing to both national and international discourse on inclusive social services.