Social safety of PhD candidates: Risk factors and Strategies

Aim/Purpose
The aim of this paper is to demonstrate that PhD candidates’ social safety is a complex, systemic matter that requires a systemic solution.

Background
Numerous studies and reports highlight that academia is not always a safe working environment for PhD candidates. They, in particular, face heightened vulnerability due to dependent working relationships, temporary contracts, and the often competitive and hierarchical nature of academic institutions. Although attempts are being made to address this issue, current interventions appear to be insufficiently effective.

Methodology
A conceptual, multilevel framework of PhD candidates’ social safety is provided by integrating three major theoretical perspectives: Social Safety Theory, Team Psychological Safety, and Psychosocial Safety Climate. Next, through a non-systematic literature review of studies about PhD candidates’ experiences, potential risk factors for their social safety are identified. Finally, the paper outlines how this knowledge can inform universities to develop a strategy to promote social safety among PhD candidates and beyond effectively.

Contribution
This paper proposes a shift in perspective – rather than treating the lack of social safety as an isolated problem, university leaders must adopt a systemic approach. This paper demonstrates the complexity of social safety, enabling a better understanding of both risk factors and the formulation of an effective strategy to foster social safety.

Findings
The social safety of PhD candidates exists at three levels (individual, team, and organizational) and is influenced by risk factors within the structure, culture, and system of the academic environment. This paper proposes that a systemic approach is needed to address these issues, rather than focusing on individual interventions alone.

Recommendations for Practitioners
University leaders should conduct a thorough assessment of their organizational structure, culture, and system to identify risks to PhD candidates’ social safety. This information should be used to develop a comprehensive safety strategy to promote and monitor the social safety of PhD candidates.

Recommendation for Researchers
This paper recommends that researchers acknowledge and adopt a more comprehensive approach when studying social safety.

Impact on Society
Improving social safety for PhD candidates can lead to improved mental health outcomes, reduced attrition rates, and higher academic performance. It will also contribute to healthier work environments across higher education.

Future Research
Future studies should focus on empirical exploration of the three theoretical perspectives on social safety. Additionally, alternative measures to assess social safety could be explored, such as including neurophysiological measures, as feeling socially unsafe can impact an individual’s cognition and emotions.