Perception of leadership challenges within the Norwegian child welfare services: A Gordian knot

Abstract

The Norwegian child welfare service is under pressure both nationally and internationally after several unfavourable verdicts in the European Court of Human Rights (EMD) and national inspections that uncovered serious problems in the system. While the challenging situation for child welfare workers has been well documented in research, there is limited knowledge on how child welfare leaders (CWLs) experience their work situation. This article explores how CWLs experience their everyday work by applying the theoretical framework of the job demands-resources (JDR) model. Data were obtained through qualitative interviews with 12 CWLs and analysed thematically. The study shows that CWLs experience a relatively high imbalance between work demands and available resources in the workplace. Additionally, participants also experience staff challenges, seemingly impossible priorities, and a sense of great personal responsibility. Many leaders experience a work situation that can best be described as a Gordian knot.