The Power of Successful PhD Friendships
Abstract
Undertaking a PhD is a challenging and often isolating experience that requires intellectual rigour and emotional resilience. This paper explores the role of female friendships in academia as a joint coping and self-care strategy for early career researchers (ECRs). Drawing on existing literature and reflective experience, this paper presents a model exploring how female friendship can contribute to a sense of belonging, well-being and professional development, as well as counteract the patriarchal, neoliberal, White Western structures.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Doctoral Education Challenges and Solutions
Mentoring and Academic Development
Career Development and Diversity
Publication details
- Journal / source
- The Practising Midwife
- Volume
- 29
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- 22–27
- Publication date
- 5 January 2026