Understanding how doctoral researchers perceive research supervision to impact their mental health and well-being

Abstract

Background: A number of risk and protective factors have been identified in association with the mental health of doctoral researchers (DRs). One consistent factor noted in the limited available literature is the role of the supervisor. This literature is largely quantitative though, meaning less is known about how DRs experience supervision and its impact on their mental health. Aim: The aim of this study was to explore how DRs experience research supervision and its impact on their mental health and wellbeing using qualitative methods at scale. Materials and Methods: We analysed the free-text responses of 1783 UK-based DRs collected as part of the nationwide U-DOC survey. Results: Using reflexive thematic analysis, we found two superordinate themes capturing how DRs perceive research supervision and its impact on their mental health: (1) supervision as a conduit and (2) supervision as a mirror. Discussion: Broadly, these themes encapsulate how supervisors can directly trigger, exacerbate or protect against mental health problems in DRs, as well as supervision providing an opportunity for DRs to learn more about themselves and their mental health. Conclusion: Our findings support the need for compulsory supervisor training on positive supervisory practices as well as understanding and responding compassionately to DRs with mental health difficulties.