dr. B.E. (Brenda) Bartelink

Foster care and religious diversity in The Netherlands

A qualitative, interview based research exploring the lived experiences of foster children, foster parents and where possible their parents with dilemmas in relation to religion in foster care. Through reflection on these dilemma's in light of ethical theories, we will  analyse ethics in practice in transreligious foster placements.

Informed by these insights, we will be able to report on the impact of religious differences and conflicts for the religious and psychosocial development of foster children. In addition, we will also offer practical guidance for foster parents and foster care professionals on religious dilemmas can be best addressed as to promote foster children’s healthy psychosocial development.

More information on this project: https://www.rug.nl/gmw/pedagogical-and-educational-sciences/research/pleegzorg-en-religie/onderzoek/

African-Dutch religious actors and the organisation of religious diversity in the city of The Hague

This project is focussed on mapping and understanding how religious actors and groups find their place in the city of The Hague, through the lens of their own self understanding as well as through their interactions with the government and civil society organisations. It is informed by ethnographic fieldwork in The Hague.

Health, well-being and family relations in African (Pentecostal) churches in the Netherlands

This project focusses on the teachings and practices around health, well-being, relationship and intimacy in African initiated churches in The Netherlands. Religion is often an important source for teachings and practices around relationships between man and women, the rearing of children, motherhood/ fatherhood as well as general health and well being of people, families and communities. This project researches the teachings and practices within churches in the Netherlands that have an African origin or background as part of a broader interest in how religion is entangled with modern, globlized lifestyles of people with African roots living in the Netherlands.

This project is part of a broader research project funded by NWO.

Religion, gender and gender based violence

Ongoing research line that included an applied research project on harmful practices commissioned by the Department for International Development in the UK, carried out in collaboration with the University of Stellenbosch and the Joint Learning Initiative on Local Faith Communities. It has resulted in research reports and policy advice, various blogposts and academic publications.

Comparative analysis on these themes, informed by various smaller research  projects  and collaboration with societal actors will continue to feed into new publications and activities.