Tina Mathisen

Tina Mathisen is a Researcher at the Centre for Welfare and Labour Research – Norwegian Social Research (NOVA), Oslo Metropolitan University, where she works within the Childhood, Family and Child Welfare research group. Her work is situated at the intersection of human geography, migration studies, and child welfare policy.

• Institution: Oslo Metropolitan University
• Research Centre: Centre for Welfare and Labour Research – Norwegian Social Research (NOVA)
• Research Group: Childhood, Family and Child Welfare

Her research focuses on the experiences of children and youth in vulnerable situations, particularly those with refugee backgrounds and those affected by domestic violence. She explores themes of belonging, place attachment, inclusion, and interagency collaboration in welfare services. Her methodological approach combines qualitative and action research, often involving participatory methods with young people and stakeholders.

Recent publications reflect a strong trend in migration and integration, with a focus on rural and urban contexts in Norway and Sweden. Her work critically examines how institutions such as schools and child welfare services shape identities and inclusion. The research spans interdisciplinary fields including sociology, education, and public policy.

Tina Mathisen actively disseminates her findings through academic publications, research reports, and conference presentations. She contributes to national and international dialogues on child welfare and integration policy.

She has collaborated with researchers across institutions and countries, particularly within EU-funded projects. Her work informs policy evaluation and development, especially in the areas of flexible welfare teams and integration measures for refugee families.

She is involved in research projects such as CoChildren, which explores cooperation in child welfare, and studies on parental restrictions and youth violence. Her contributions include comprehensive evaluations of public programs and in-depth qualitative studies on youth belonging.