Janus-Faced Activation: between Discipline and Empowerment

Barbora Grundelova

Abstract
OBJECTIVES: The aim of the text is to analyze the implementation of activation strategies through two key activation models. THEORETICAL BASE: The text is based on the concept of governmentality by Michel Foucault. As an analytical framework, there are two bipolar models of activation: the work first approach and the human development approach. METHODS: A qualitative content analysis of academic sources was undertaken in order to achieve the goals. OUTCOMES: Based on the analysis, selected activation effects are discussed as a complex continuum between disciplinary and empowering macro-, meso- and micro-level practices. SOCIAL WORK IMPLICATIONS: Based on the data collected, the potential of social work in the activation context is looked for.

Keywords
activation, unemployment, labour market, social work