Dr. Gonneke Stevens

Biography

Gonneke Stevens is a professor of Youth Welfare at the Interdisciplinary Social Science department at Utrecht University. She researches changes in the mental health of Dutch youth, with a special focus on young people growing up in poverty. By studying the relationships between mental health and various characteristics of individuals, families, physical and social environments, and society, she seeks to better understand differences among youth in this area and contribute to strengthening the mental health of young people. Gonneke leads the Dutch HBSC research project and the NWA project ‘Minding Gap,’ focused on developing approaches for youth growing up in poverty. She is also part of the Trails management team and is a figurehead for NWA Youth Development, Education, and Parenting. In June 2025, she held her inaugural lecture titled 'Plea for the Complex Story.'

Research Interests

Experience