Project team members:

• Assoc. Prof. Ivana Maurović, PhD
• Assoc. Prof. Anja Mirosavljević, PhD
• Assoc. Prof. Gabrijela Ratkajec Gašević, PhD
• Andrea Ćosić, PhD, senior assistant
• Andreja Šprem, mag. paed. soc.

Associates:

• Prof. Marijana Majdak, PhD
• Prof. Slavica Blaženka Kokorić, PhD
• Assis. Prof. Matea Kramarić, PhD
• Prof. Mitja Krajnčan, PhD

The project explores the characteristics of the stigmatization of children and parents within the alternative care system in Croatia. Its objectives include analyzing stigmatization from multiple perspectives (users, professionals, decision-makers, peers, and the media), examining how experiences of stigmatization affect self-image, well-being, and social inclusion, analyzing relevant policies and practices, establishing an advisory group of young people with care experience, and developing guidelines to reduce stigmatization. The research applies a mixed-methods approach: a qualitative phase (focus groups and interviews) and a quantitative phase (surveys and policy analysis). It includes children aged 14 and above and parents who are users of the system, as well as peer children, professionals, decision-makers, individuals with care experience, and media representatives. Approximately 100 participants are expected in the qualitative phase and 320 in the quantitative phase. The scientific contribution lies in the development of research instruments, the application of a mixed-methods design, and the publication of results in relevant scientific databases (SCOPUS, WoS). The social contribution includes guidelines and promotional-educational materials aimed at reducing stigmatization. The project strengthens the institution’s research capacities by establishing a new research group, promoting a participatory approach, involving students, and creating a database for future research.