NAVIGATING TRUST UNDER PRESSURE A discourse analysis of social workers’ views of trust in relation to individuals exposed to honor-related violence and oppression

Trust is a foundational element of social cooperation and institutional functioning, yet it remains a complex and contested concept, especially in sensitive social work contexts. In Sweden, public trust in institutions is increasingly debated, with particular concern about individuals exposed to honor-related violence and oppression (HRVO). These individuals often exhibit low levels of trust toward public authorities due to experiences of exclusion, marginalization, and harmful societal narratives. This thesis explores how social workers within Swedish public institutions perceive and navigate the concept of trust in their work with individuals exposed to HRVO. Utilizing a discourse analysis, the study investigates social workers’ understandings of trust, as well as the challenges and facilitators in building trust within this context. By focusing on these frontline professionals’ perspectives, the research aims to deepen understanding of institutional trust, particularly in the context of HRVO, contributing to broader discussions on trust, social cohesion, and effective intervention. Data was gathered through seven semi-structured individual interviews with professionals working with HRVO in Sweden. The data was then analyzed utilizing discourse analysis and a theoretical framework consisting of discourse theory and power, and further placed in relation to previous research. The findings reveal that social workers perceive trust as a multifaceted and dynamic process, essential for both immediate safety and long-term empowerment of individuals exposed to HRVO. Trust is understood not as a fixed attribute but as something that must be earned gradually through consistent, empathetic, and culturally sensitive engagement. Professionals emphasize the mutual and relational nature of trust, requiring both the social worker and the individual to actively participate in building and maintaining it. Challenges such as power imbalances, institutional constraints, and prevailing negative societal narratives complicate this process, often contributing to mistrust and emotional distance. Nonetheless, social workers highlight strategies that foster trust, including active listening, humility, transparency, and sustained presence over time. The study underscores that trust is shaped not only by interpersonal dynamics but also by broader structural and discursive forces, where institutional responsiveness and policy frameworks play a critical role. Ultimately, these insights point to the necessity of critical reflection on power relations and systemic reforms to support more effective, trust-based social work interventions for individuals exposed to HRVO. 2