Margriet Braun

Dr. Margriet Braun is a Professor in Social Work at Saxion University, where she leads the Social Work research group focused on improving quality of life and community living. With over thirteen years of experience, she has developed expertise across the full spectrum of social work practice, particularly in youth care.

Braun's academic background in social psychology informs her research on group processes and their application to social contexts. She delivered her inaugural lecture on October 12th, presenting her vision of social workers as 'the eyes and ears of society.' Her research interests span youth care, evidence-based practice, poverty studies, family dynamics, and community development, always approaching social work from a holistic perspective that considers individuals within their unique contexts.

Her recent publications (2012-2016) reveal a strong focus on practical social interventions addressing loneliness, poverty, family crises, and community development. These works demonstrate her commitment to translating research into actionable social work practices that create lasting positive change.

Dr. Braun leads several significant research projects including:

• 'Virtual Reality in Complex Divorces' - investigating how VR can help parents understand divorce's impact on children
• 'Werkplaats Ondersteuning Thuiswonende Ouderen (WOTO)' - developing projects to help elderly people live independently
• 'Drop IN' - strengthening youth work for crime prevention
• 'Healthy Children in Tight Times' - completed with University of Twente and GGD
• 'Doing What Works for Children' - developing learning cultures for youth care professionals

She serves on the Support Plan Council (2021-present) and collaborates with Twente East Primary Education. Braun advocates for recognizing social work's intrinsic value beyond economic measures, emphasizing improved social functioning as a key outcome of quality social work practice.