PhD Students’ Well-Being and Satisfaction: Analyzing Hungarian PhD Candidates in Transylvania Cover Image

„Boldogok, akik... ragaszkodnak ahhoz, amiben hisznek.” Erdélyi magyar PhD-hallgatók elégedettsége és jólléte
PhD Students’ Well-Being and Satisfaction: Analyzing Hungarian PhD Candidates in Transylvania

Author(s): Szidónia Rusu, Emese Vita
Subject(s): Sociology of Education
Published by: Korunk Baráti Társaság
Keywords: PhD students; well-being; supervisory support; workload; mental health

Summary/Abstract: The well-being and satisfaction of PhD students are receiving increasing attention in academic research, reflecting broader concerns regarding this group’s mental health and overall well-being. Studies indicate that PhD candidates often encounter heightened mental health challenges, such as stress, anxiety, and isolation, compared to their peers with master’s degrees. This study focuses on Hungarian PhD students in Transylvania, analyzing the factors influencing their happiness and satisfaction. Based on data collected in 2021 through a non-representative survey of 126 PhD candidates, this research identifies key factors contributing to their well-being, including internal and external motivators, supervisory support, and the effects of workload and personal circumstances. In conclusion, the well-being and life satisfaction of PhD students are influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including supervisory support, workload, personal resources, and cultural context. The study recommends institutional strategies to enhance their overall well-being and academic success.

  • Issue Year: 2024
  • Issue No: 12
  • Page Range: 73-84
  • Page Count: 12
  • Language: Hungarian
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