The role of the research environment and motivation in PhD students’ well-being: A perspective from self-determination theory

The role of the research environment and motivation in PhD students’ well-being: A perspective from self-determination theory

• Chen, Junjun The Education University of Hong Kong
• King, Ronnel B. The Chinese University of Hong Kong
• Li, Yingxiu The Education University of Hong Kong
• Xu, Wendan The Education University of Hong Kong

Higher Education Research and Development, 2023

Routledge

2023

• C Psychology & Learning
  • CC Motivation of Learning

PhD Well-being Research Environment Motivation

• Hong Kong

• 1997.7 onwards

• Post-Secondary Education

Though well-being problems are prevalent among PhD students, the contextual antecedents and underlying mechanisms behind these problems remain underexplored. The aim of this study was to explore whether and how the research environment affects the well-being of PhD students through their motivation. Self-determination theory was used as the theoretical framework in order to understand how the research environment plays a role in PhD students’ well-being. Students’ autonomous and controlled motivation was posited as mechanisms linking the research environment to well-being. PhD students (n = 2578) from eight Hong Kong government-funded universities were recruited. Results revealed various dimensions of the research environment including process and assessment, culture, and skills development that had distinctive connections with students’ motivation and their well-being. Furthermore, students’ motivation significantly mediated the relationships between the research environment and their well-being. This study provides theoretical implications for increasing awareness of the factors and mechanisms that support or undermine PhD students’ well-being. It also has functional suggestions for educators and administrators interested in enhancing PhD students’ motivation and well-being. Copyright © 2023 HERDSA.

• English

Journal Articles

• 07294360

• 10.1080/07294360.2023.2269870

https://bibliography.lib.eduhk.hk/bibs/fd5d6992

2024-03-14