Stuck in the Loop of Unemployment

Abstract This paper investigates the types of work that unemployed youths perform as part of their obligations to the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (WA) while receiving services and financial benefits. Our findings identify two primary categories of work: the use of digital self-services for mainly administrative purposes and the relational work involving interactions with advisors and other clients. We found that digital self-services often delegate small, fragmented tasks to clients, perceived as mechanisms of control. In contrast, the relational interactions are experienced as valuable support, assisting clients in navigating and progressing their situation. We discuss the nature and implications of digital self-service work and propose design alternatives aimed at enhancing clients’ understanding of the employment process, emphasizing the importance of task significance within a wider context. Additionally, we examine the role and limitations of digital self-services within public welfare administration, particularly in assisting clients facing challenging life circumstances. To address the complex issue of youth unemployment, we suggest a participatory approach, aimed at helping young individuals break the ‘loop of unemployment.’