Technologies and cultures of well-being

The studies on technologies and cultures of well-being examine views, experiences, actions and expectations related to consumer well-being. We understand technologies of well-being as tools and methods through which people themselves can enhance personal well-being, or which enable such enhancement. Cultures of well-being, for their part, represent the various ways in which people make sense of factors influencing personal well-being, of which prominent examples are diet and exercise. Our studies are inspired by consumer orientation and understanding the everyday activities of people from the viewpoint of theory of practices developed in sociology.

Our research projects focus on a variety of aspects of well-being and apply both qualitative and quantitative methods. Our current studies aim at analysing and supporting consumer well-being, as well as participating in the development of foods and meals promoting the well-being of elderly people. Furthermore, the consumer impacts and connections of food policy, such as dietary fat and obesity in the everyday lives of Finnish people, Nordic eating habits, and the interaction between consumers and producers in the food chain, are examined. The related research results can be used in decision-making in society regarding consumption and sustainable development and promotion of well-being, and in the product and service development of enterprises.

In 2012, the research group will carry out the following projects:

• Fatty foods and fat bodies: Diversification of ideals and practices in healthy eating (2011–2015)
  Mikko Jauho, Mari Niva, Piia Jallinoja, Johanna Mäkelä
• Strategic Center of Health and Well-being: Mind and Body (2010-2013)
  Tanja Kotro, Mika Pantzar, Minna Ruckenstein
• Virtual coach – Supporting the well-being process in social media and coaching (2011–2012)
  Mika Pantzar, Petteri Repo, Kaarina Hyvönen
• An interactive and responsible food product chain (2011–2014)
  Katja Järvelä, Ari Peltoniemi, Anu Raijas
• Food in Nordic everyday life (2011–2014)
  Mari Niva, Johanna Mäkelä
• Development of food products, meals and packages tailored for senior consumers (2011–2014)
  Helena Tuorila, Katja Järvelä
• Meat consumption now and in the future (2009–2012)
  Mari Niva, Johanna Mäkelä

Head of research

Piia Jallinoja, Head of Research, tel. +358 50 360 3166

Researchers

Mika Pantzar, Research Professor, tel. +358 10 605 9009
Mikko Jauho, Senior Researcher, tel. +358 10 605 9008

Katja Järvelä, Researcher, tel. +358 50 574 4964

Minna Ruckenstein, specialforskare, tfn. 010 605 9011

Helena Tuorila, Senior Researcher, tel. +358 10 605 9035