The Role of Technology in Enhancing Child Welfare Interventions : A Grounded Theory Study in the Swedish Context

This thesis explores the role of technology in enhancing child welfare interventions within the context of Sweden’s advanced digital and egalitarian welfare system. Grounded in an explora- tory qualitative approach, the study employs Grounded Theory as both its methodological and theoretical framework, enabling the emergence of context-sensitive insights through open, ax- ial, and selective coding of 18 systematically selected peer-reviewed articles. The analysis re- veals four interrelated dimensions—Interaction & Engagement, Accessibility & Equity, Or- ganizational Fit, and Policy & Ethics—that shape the integration of digital tools in Swedish child welfare services. Findings suggest that while technology enhances communication, sup- ports child-centered innovation, and improves service efficiency, it also faces challenges such as workflow disruption, regulatory constraints, and inconsistent evaluation practices. The study underscores that successful technological adoption is context-dependent, requiring institutional readiness, policy alignment, and stakeholder engagement. By identifying both opportunities and barriers, this research provides evidence-based insights that can guide policy development and interdisciplinary collaboration to create a more equitable, inclusive, and effective child welfare system in Sweden.