PhD Students: The Impact of Contextual and Organizational Conditions on Emotional Well-Being
Abstract
Recently, university students’ mental health has gained increasing social relevance, particularly in the context of the demands of doctoral studies. In this study, we explore the contextual and organizational conditions that influence the emotional well-being of doctoral students. Based on a survey conducted among doctoral students at the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), academic, organizational, and relational factors were analyzed. The results reveal a high prevalence of anxiety and depression, especially among women and those in the final phase of their doctorate. Belonging to research groups does not appear to act as a protective factor, while a poor relationship with the thesis supervisor is associated with higher distress. We highlight the need for further exploration of how institutional and academic dynamics shape the emotional well-being of this group, advocating for interventions that go beyond an individualistic approach and foster healthier academic environments.
Keywords
Mental health, Postgraduates, Academic environment, Empirical researchReferences
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