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Grit as a Key Factor in PhD Students’ Work Engagement and Burnout

Author

Listed:
  • Kaja Lillelien

    (Norwegian Centre for Learning Environment and Behavioural Research in Education, University of Stavanger, P.O. Box 8600, 4036 Stavanger, Norway)

  • Elena Menichelli

    (Department of Business Management and Development, University of Stavanger, P.O. Box 8600, 4036 Stavanger, Norway)

  • Gunhild Bjaalid

    (Department of Health Technology, University of Stavanger, P.O. Box 8600, 4036 Stavanger, Norway)

Abstract

Background: This study aims to explore the potential factors that can support Ph.D. students in completing their theses in a timely manner while maintaining their mental well-being. Theory: Based on the JD-R model, we discriminate between two independent processes: (1) Job demands are a health impairment process that may lead to exhaustion and burnout. (2) Job resources are a motivational process that may lead to job satisfaction and engagement. In this study, we also wanted to explore grit as a potential mediator variable and how it could impact exhaustion at work and work engagement among Ph.D. students. Methods: A cross-sectional web-based survey design was used, from a sample of 194 Ph.D. students in Norway. Data were analyzed through structural equation modeling. Results: Our results indicated that demands at work, not resources, had a positive significant effect on Ph.D. students’ grit, which acted as a mediator variable for exhaustion at work and work engagement. Conclusions: This study improves our understanding of the factors affecting Ph.D. students’ mental well-being and sheds light on how institutions can optimize resources and demands to promote timely thesis completion while minimizing the risk of severe mental health challenges.

Suggested Citation

  • Kaja Lillelien & Elena Menichelli & Gunhild Bjaalid, 2026. "Grit as a Key Factor in PhD Students’ Work Engagement and Burnout," Social Sciences, MDPI, vol. 15(2), pages 1-20, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jscscx:v:15:y:2026:i:2:p:120-:d:1864674
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