PhD experience (and progress) is more than work : life-work relations and reducing exhaustion (and cynicism)

McAlpine, L. and Skakni, I. and Pyhältö, K. (2022) PhD experience (and progress) is more than work : life-work relations and reducing exhaustion (and cynicism). Studies in Higher Education, 47 (2). pp. 352-366. ISSN 0307-5079

Abstract

Prior studies have reported high levels of PhD stress resulting in exhaustion and cynicism related to negative institutional factors. Yet, we know little of the possible influence of personal lives on exhaustion/cynicism. This mixed-methods study examines the interrelation. We drew on exhaustion, cynicism, life-work relation scales and free-write responses about managing life and work of 123 Swiss PhD students. Respondents typically reported positive life-work relations, with this experience particularly buffering exhaustion, which can lead to cynicism and possibly burnout. The analysis of free-write responses supported this view. Respondents reported they largely balanced/managed to balance life and work, with family most frequently referenced in this regard. Finally, we combined the scaled and free-write responses. Individuals, even if reporting exhaustion and negative aspects in their life-work relations, consistently reported being able to combine their career and life goals. This alignment may serve as a mechanism for buffering other life-work and institutional challenges.