What does rejection look like? A photovoice study on emotions and coping regarding manuscript rejection

Abstract

The study aimed to illustrate the emotions related to manuscript rejection experiences and coping strategies. We conducted individual interviews and focus groups with academics receiving at least one rejection in the last year using the photovoice method. The data were analyzed using a thematic analysis based on the pictures and interviews. The findings indicated that the participants had negative emotional responses to desk rejections and peer-review rejections. We observed that the participants resorted to three strategies; avoidant strategies, neutral (neither approach nor avoidant) strategies, and approach strategies to cope with manuscript rejection. Avoidant strategies consisted of denial, self-distraction, and venting, while approach strategies included acceptance, support, planning, and positive reframing. Our study revealed that neutral strategies had humor as the only dimension. It also highlighted the significance of addressing the emotions and opinions of academics with rejection experiences. The findings also guide the coping strategies. The implications include awareness-raising activities at both individual and institutional levels.

A practical guide to drafting your first manuscript for publication

“…Active coping strategies include taking a walk before reading the reviewer reports in detail, reaching out to support people, planning next steps and positive reframing; these steps can help authors manage negative emotions such as shock, disappointment and anger. 13 Experienced researchers routinely plan for resubmission to several journals, ranked in order of preference. Systematically working through this list of target journals, incorporating constructive feedback from previous rejections at each resubmission, is a useful strategy in managing rejections.…”