Two Perspectives on Caring Research: Research on Well-Being and Researcher Well-Being

Abstract

Caring research is a new concept that is discussed and defined from two supplementary perspectives: (1) as research aiming at promoting well-being and (2) as a caring research community that cares for the researcher well-being and reciprocal relationships between colleagues and between supervisors and students. These dimensions are discussed in the light of the latest findings and theories of positive psychology as well as based on the authors’ studies in the field. The caring research ideology contributes a comprehensive viewpoint to the world of academic research because it also pays attention to the actual research process within the research community. This well-being focused approach can serve as a means to flourish within the ever-increasing demands of the academic world. Key words: caring research, positive psychology, researcher well-being, supervision, well-being at work.

Doctor who? Developing a translation device for exploring successful doctoral being and becoming

“…Studies argue that 'ideal' supervisors are attentive to candidates' requests for help (Åkerlind & McAlpine, 2017), adaptable and flexible, especially for part-time candidates or in cases where candidates' circumstances or study plans change, and are able and willing to offer constructive feedback that enables candidates to learn the discourses of the discipline through their writing, reading, and thinking work (Kumar & Stracke, 2007;Stracke & Kumar, 2020). Additionally, supervisors are called on to be attentive to candidates' mental and emotional wellbeing, referring candidates for professional assistance as needed and generally being kind and accommodating where needed (Määttä & Uusiautti, 2015;Strandler, et al, 2014). This research points to the need for supervisors to 'see' their candidates in the sense of recognising them as whole people with full lives that include but are not solely focused on their doctorate.…”