In light of an optimistic understanding of the concept of mental health, we are concerned with understanding how different arenas where children, young people and adults stay can facilitate an environment where participants can develop their inherent potential, experience security, belonging and take part in and contribute to the community. The optimistic understanding of health is closely linked to a salutogenic approach (Antonovsky, 1987, 2012) where the focus is on what brings health despite stressful living conditions.

The thematic focus of the WiN research group is to study wellbeing related to learning processes and motivation in school, in work and in leisure time. A goal is also to develop an understanding of how schools, organizations and leisure institutions can contribute to educating and educating citizens who master their own lives, and who can contribute actively in their surroundings so that others can also master their own lives. This is the knowledge we seek to achieve through issues on an individual level as well as on a collective level.